Fluoride to remain in Lower Hutt water

Hutt City Council last night voted to retain the status quo on fluoride in the Lower Hutt water supply.

Mayor Ray Wallace presided over a packed public gallery as more than 30 speakers, some holding anti fluoride banners, sought time to have their say in the public forum prior to the meeting getting under way.

Mayor Wallace allocated a minute a piece across all the speakers but with set ups for presentations including one contributor Skyping into the meeting from overseas, the meeting proper did not start till two hours later.

“There have been many passionate expressions of support for both sides of the fluoride debate and council welcomes the opportunity for all views to be heard,” he told the meeting.

After a further debate within council, the resolution to retain the status quo was finally put and succeeded by eight votes to five.

Other issues decided included the relocation of the Hutt Night Market to Laings Road with a proviso that it will be reviewed after 12 months. The market is due to open in early December.