Key themes in Hamilton's 10-Year Plan

The proposed regional theatre is one project that has received mixed reviews. Photo / Supplied

Hamilton city councillors now have some indication where the public stands on key projects outlined in the draft 10-Year plan.

A controversial analysis report provided to councillors by staff on Tuesday showed that certain projects could be off the table — if elected members listen to the feedback.

A total of 893 submitters left a question over rates unanswered but commented that they were not in support of any of the six options suggested because there was no option with lower rates options.

An immediate move to capital value rating was also strongly rejected, with 87 per cent saying no and to continue with a staged transition.

A proposed $3.9 million Garden Place redevelopment led by developer Matt Stark had received 1187 votes against, with only 242 supporting the project.

In Sarah Thompson's submission she wrote that no amount of change will bring people in to the CBD.

"Do not change Garden Place, it is changed every council. No amount of revamping will bring people in. It is not a destination to go to (nothing scenic about sitting in an area surrounded by buildings with traffic), but to walk through if you happen to go to that area of town," Ms Thompson wrote.

Rachel Tordoff wrote every dollar spent on projects is affecting the average ratepayer.

"Really do we need to reinvest in Garden Place, every $1 means lots of us are closer to having to move, insurance is going up, rates are going up," Ms Tordoff wrote.

The Waikato Regional Theatre is another project that has been responded to negatively, although for different reasons.

More than 900 submitters ticked no for a regional theatre but in further comments many have said the location is the problem due to parking and safety issues.

Ailsa Rasmussen wrote that the demolition of Founders Theatre should be considered so the regional theatre can take its place.

One of the key themes was also support for Founders to be refurbished in place of the proposed Regional Theatre.

Hamilton's themed gardens could soon have an entry fee for non-Hamilton residents as 52 per cent of submitters supported the idea.

However, many submitters commented that a lower charge should be set than the proposed $10.

The library network expansion, a project that was not originally supported by council had over 600 votes of support, more than any of the nine projects included in the draft plan.

Public transport was a major discussion point for submitters with many wanting to see better public transport in Hamilton.

Re-opening the central rail station was suggested as it was closer to the bus station than the current Frankton station.

Some people suggested road tolls to fund projects, even though that option is not on the table.

Greg Trowern said that a road toll on the highway could be a way to take the burden off ratepayers.

"The concept of road tolls to pay for better highways is an excellent initiative. The few times I have travelled on the northern toll road I have not seen many cars opt for the longer route," Mr Trowern wrote.

Frank Lin also supported the idea saying a road toll should be added to the Waikato Expressway.

■When no answer means 'yes' by default — Pg 3

■More questions than answers over 10-Year plan — Pg 5