Calling all Te Awamutu residents – its time to have your say again on the direction Council needs to take with your town centre.
In the first stage of the project, Council asked for your feedback on the issues and projects you felt needed to be considered as part of the future development of the Town Centre.
Based on your comments and submissions, the project steering committee, chaired by Cr Michael Cox, and comprising Cr Hazel Barnes, Cr Laurie Hoverd, Cr Graham Jull, Cr George Simmons, Community Board chair Dean Taylor, plus Council staff and consultants, worked hard to prepare a concept plan that reflected community aspirations.
As a result of this, a draft project list has been drawn up that addresses existing issues and future opportunities, incorporating businesses, traffic movement, parking, pedestrian needs, heritage and sport and recreation. Community feedback now will aid Council in reconfirming or amending the timing of projects and funding arrangements.
Waipa District Mayor Alan Livingston would like to strongly encourage Te Awamutu residents to get involved.
“I encourage everyone to carefully consider the concept plan and provide feedback, as now is the important time to make a difference. This is an exciting opportunity to influence and determine Te Awamutu’s future, so we need to get it right. Good planning and good quality work will set Te Awamutu up very well for the next 30 years”
One key aspect is the discussion around heavy trucks travelling along Alexandra Street. Council is aware this is not ideal so is recommending a compromise of restricted hours for truck access.
The implications of this need to be fully considered by residents and reflected in their submissions to Council, says Mr Livingston.
“Our heavy trucking businesses provide a high commercial value to the town. Their economic benefit is important to our community while all of these long established companies are an integral part of Te Awamutu”.
In Thursday’s Courier, there will be a two page spread comprising a concept map and project prioritisation list, plus information on a project open day and how you can make a submission.
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