Council needs to work with Wilderland community

Thames-Coromandel Council needs to work with the Wilderland community to find a fair process for bringing their buildings up to standard, said Green Party MP and Coromandel resident Catherine Delahunty today.

Wilderland is an organic farming community that has been operating in the Coromandel since 1964. The Thames-Coromandel District Council is taking court action to have 14 buildings demolished in the Wilderland community. 

“The Wilderland community is committed to bringing their buildings up to modern standards but they need more time to make this transition. The Council needs to work with the community to make this happen, rather than threatening them with court action,” said Ms Delahunty.

“The community is in the process of fundraising to improve their homes. It is unfair to force people out of their homes while this process is ongoing; they don’t have anywhere else to live.

“This is a clear case for mediation to find a solution that meets the requirements of the council and allows the Wilderland community, to keep on farming and living on their land.

“While a court date has been set, there is still time for a more reasonable approach. I am happy to act as mediator between the Council and the community if this will help.

Ms Delahunty also appealed to the new Coromandel Mayor, Glenn Leach, to take a leadership role and talk to his staff about this unnecessary and expensive litigation against people who have little money and no other homes.

Ms Delahunty is meeting with the Wilderland community at 1pm today to discuss their concerns and how to find a fair solution.