Record number of people have their say

A record breaking 1688 submissions were received on the Nelson City Council draft Annual Plan during the consultation period, which closed last Friday.

Residents took the opportunity to let Council know what they want on a wide variety of topics, but the lion’s share were on the proposed Rutherford Park development, which could include a Performing Arts Centre and/or a Conference Centre. Councillors will now take that feedback on board before making any final decisions.

Nelson Mayor Aldo Miccio says it’s wonderful so many people made the effort to have their say on the future direction of our city.

“This is an important time for Nelson and we really do need to get a snap shot of the views of our residents” Mr Miccio says.

“The fact so many submissions were made shows the level of interest generated by this year’s Draft Annual Plan and the heightened awareness of the whole Annual Plan process.”

What happens next?

Hearings will be held May 27-31 for those people who want to explain their views to Council.
Council will make decisions based on issues raised in the feedback on 10, 13 and 14 June and the Annual Plan will be updated as a result.
The final plan will be adopted by Council on 23 June 2011.
The approved Annual Plan comes into effect on 1 July 2011.
Council would like to thank all those who took the time to send in their views.