Submissions called for on plan change

One of the key roles we have in looking after the place we love is making sure we keep our community safe.

Most recently our policy team has been busy working to identify areas of the district where there is a higher chance of flooding so affected landowners can make informed decisions about what they do on their land and how land can be further developed.

It has involved flood hazard mapping by experts, countless hours of review to make sure the information is robust, and two phases of consultation with over 1000 affected landowners and stakeholders across the district.

They have had conversations with ratepayer groups, energy companies, the harbour master, infrastructure providers and real estate agents, attended meetings with stakeholders and Tuwharetoa Maori Trust Board staff, hosted two open days, held one survey and given numerous presentations. There has also been 20 meetings on site with landowners, 92 pieces of feedback and about 25 people attending each open day!

Now, the Council is at the stage where it can formally notify its intention to make a change to the District Plan to include identified flood hazard areas and call for submissions.

Policy manager Nick Carroll said Plan Change 34 - Flood Hazard was required under the law to manage the risks to people and property.

"The current District Plan does not identify all of the known flood hazard areas associated with rivers and Lake Taupo and it is important these are identified," he said. Importantly, the new information provides detail on the likely depth and speed of flood waters enabling a risk-based approach. That means the council can be flexible enabling development is areas of low risk, while being more careful in areas of higher risk.

"We have written to all the affected landowners inviting submissions and are hopeful the work we have done will assist them in their future decision making."

Submissions on Plan Change 34 - Flood Hazard opened last Friday and close at 1pm on 20 December 2017. To find out more visit our consultation page.