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Otago Central Rail Trail Plan 2011

Tuesday 29 November 2011, 3:59PM

By Otago Central Rail Trail Working Party

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OTAGO

The draft Otago Central Rail Trail plan was made available for public consultation in September and October 2011. The draft plan attracted 53 submissions all addressing various key issues of the plan. On 16 November 2011, the working party (made up of key stakeholders of the Rail Trail) met to hear and consider submissions to the plan and discuss and decide on final recommendations.

“The many submissions received showed great interest in the Otago Central Rail Trail and gave a clear indication of the importance for all sectors to contribute to its continuing success”. Daphne Hull – Chair of Otago Central Rail Trail Trust

A number of outcomes were reached due to the consultation process and the plan is currently being amended to reflect these issues.

The key topics that were raised during the hearing were both how the Trail was to be marketed and promoted and how the Trail was to be managed long term.

Following the hearing, it was recommended in the plan that a targeted marketing and promotional plan needs to be developed by representatives of key groups including the Otago Central Rail Trail Trust, the Otago Central Rail Trail Operators group, the Department of Conservation, Tourism Central Otago, Tourism Dunedin and the Chamber of Commerce.

To drive this plan it was also recommended that an Otago Central Rail Trail stakeholders group be created. Once the group is established and terms of reference drawn up, it will then go on to action recommendations in and drive the Otago Central Rail Trail Plan.

Other issues that were covered during the submission process were improving on and adding to the visitor experience, safety on the Rail Trail, enhancing railway heritage and the protection of areas of conservation along the trail.

The Otago Central Rail Trail is very significant in Central Otago. It is a huge asset that has contributed to Central Otago in many ways in terms of boosting economy, creating new business opportunities, conserving heritage, increasing tourism and reviving small communities.

“We are entering exciting times for the Rail Trail. With all stakeholders involved in the process going forward I am sure we will be able to confidently tackle any challenges that may arise and make the best decisions for the Rail Trail for the long term”. - Dorothy Piper – Rail Trail Operators Group

Copies of the final plan will be available at the Central Otago District Council early in the New Year.