Splash pad planning advances

Horowhenua is going ahead with plans to build a splash pad, despite criticism from ratepayers.

Horowhenua district councillors have decided to approve $50,000 for planning a splash pad in Jubilee Park, Levin.

After the planning stage, the council will consider allocating up to $400,000 for the splash pad’s construction as part of the LongTerm Plan.

Submitters on this year’s Annual Plan were against the splash pad. Most wanted the old paddling pool at the park removed and not replaced.

Twenty-five submissions asked for council spending to focus on essential services.

The council would consider alternative funding for the splash pad, it was decided at a meeting this month.

Councillor Piri-hira Tukapua said she would explore and obtain such funding.

Although most submissions were against the splash pad, there was strong support among people commenting on Facebook.

‘‘It is going to get a lot of use. It is going to be enjoyed by all.’’

Cr Christine Mitchell was the only one to vote against the splash pad. She said she did not think it was the right time.

‘‘We can revisit it in a year when we know what the effects of Covid-19 are.’’

She said Facebook comments were not good evidence there was support for the proposal.

‘‘Those who take the time to submit properly were more likely to look at the big picture.’’

Cr David Allan said it was the council’s role to promote social wellbeing.

He said feasibility testing was an essential and sensible first step. Only after that could the council look at making a larger investment.