IWIK wanted to make the most efficient use of an under-utilised land resource in a way that mitigated adverse effects on the environment and helped increase housing supply in Whanganui, the report said.
“It is surrounded by residential housing, has legal and physical access to Manuka St, existing power and telecommunications connections, and is serviced for wastewater, stormwater and water supply on-site.
“Due to its former use, the land has depression areas of greater than 300mm and is a HAIL site [Hazardous Activities and Industries List], both of which require mitigation before development.”
At a meeting on May 5, council principal policy planner Justin Walters said it was not uncommon for bowling clubs to use heavy metals to care for turf over many years.
Council officers recommended accepting the private plan change, rather than adopting it. Adoption would mean the council would have to take responsibility for progressing it, along with all costs and risks.
Huirua told councillors accepting the plan change allowed it to be publicly notified and tested through submissions, evidence and a hearing.
“Acceptance keeps costs with the applicant, preserves public and iwi input, and represents the lowest risk and most legally robust option,” she said.
“Any development down the track would be a whole different issue and under a resource management consent process.”
Councillors voted unanimously in favour of the recommendation.
Huirua’s report said IWIK Trust intended to pursue the private plan change, then sell the site after rezoning.
“Potential future development of the land can create income from development levies and residential rates, and bring fiscal benefits associated with population growth.
“Views of the community will be sought through the submission process completed in accordance with Schedule 1 of the Resource Management Act 1991.”
A council spokesperson said submissions would open next week via the Have Your Say section of its website.
Mike Tweed is a multimedia journalist at the Whanganui Chronicle. Since starting in March 2020, he has dabbled in everything from sport to music. At present his focus is local government, primarily Whanganui District Council.
