4 November 2011

Councils welcome decision on Boundary Change

Palmerston North City and Manawatu District Councils welcome the decision of the Joint Boundary Committee to proceed with the Boundary Change.

The Committee released its decision this morning and stated it was satisfied that the majority of the draft reorganisation scheme was appropriate but felt some minor changes were warranted. Both Councils agree the Committee’s amendments should still allow the overall goals of the initial proposal to be achieved, however there has not yet been an opportunity to consider the full decision.

Mayor of Palmerston North, Jono Naylor, said the decision is an important one that will pave the way for significant growth in jobs within the region.

“Both Council’s strongly believed that the boundary change was the best option for the future of our region. We know that firms have been looking at building new warehouses around the current boundary, and that different planning rules between the two Councils has make it difficult for them and may have led to investment being taken elsewhere.”

“The boundary change means that we will be able to offer a simple process to these investors, through one Local Authority, and may see significant warehouses being built. These warehouses bring jobs, in the warehouses themselves as well as builders, plumbers, couriers, trucking firms and so on. All these jobs bring more people and families to the District and City – the flow on effects for our wider region from this boundary change will be hugely positive,” said Mr Naylor.

Mayor of Manawatu District, Ian McKelvie, said the boundary change will also have positive effects for the Manawatu District.

“Some believe the beneficiary of this boundary change is only Palmerston North City. However, what is good for the city is also good for us; we will grow and thrive alongside them. We are expecting a better performing economy, more and better paid jobs, a better performing infrastructure and a much better planned future for us all.”

“This boundary change helps make our future more secure and that’s what this has been about. It’s about a good deal for the ratepayers, about efficient, effective planning, about people making a good living from employment in their own backyard. We’re absolutely delighted with the Joint Boundary Committee’s decision, and look forward to working with the City on the details as we bring this boundary change in to effect,” said Mr McKelvie.

The two Councils will meet over the next week to review the decision and determine what the implications of the alterations are.

Both Councils have been working closely together to determine what needs to be done to ensure a smooth transition for the areas affected by the boundary change. The relationship built during the planning process will be further strengthened as the two Councils begin implementation of the boundary change over the coming months.

ENDS

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