Survey gives bouquets, brickbats

The public want to see more engagement, communication and planning from Mackenzie District Council, according to a council survey undertaken earlier this year.

A total of 759 responses were received to the survey, which ran from January 16 to February 16, 67 per cent of which were from permanent residents.

When asked what they would like to see improved, 15.71 per cent said council engagement and communication, 14.39 per cent called for better urban design and maintenance, 10.31 per cent wanted improved road safety and infrastructure, and 9.47 per cent said responsible and positive growth and development.

Council chief executive Suzette van Aswegen was delighted with the strong response to the survey.

‘‘While some of the results come as no surprise, such as the fact that almost everyone loves the amazing scenery and natural environment, there are other things that certainly warrant further investigation,’’ van Aswegen said.

‘‘There’s obviously room for improvement for council, and this survey lays that out in plain sight. We’re not shying away from this and that’s why we’re sharing the results with our community.’’

Other improvements selected by respondents were: addressing the environmental and visual impacts of dairy farming and irrigation (76), more provision of affordable housing (68), better management of tourism and its impact on the community (52), improved infrastructure to deal with tourism (49), environmental planning (42), better enforcement of freedom camping restrictions (34) and improved waste management (21).

The least popular suggestion was the reduction of rates, with only six people selecting it as something they want for the district.

The ‘‘clean natural environment’’, ‘‘amazing scenery’’ and ‘‘community spirit’’ are what people like most about the district, according to the survey.

When asked what they would like the district to be known for, 19.88 per cent of people said the natural environment and beauty, 18.59 per cent said a protected and sustainable environment, 9.53 per cent said well-managed tourism.

The results of the survey will be used to develop 30-year spacial plans for Fairlie, Tekapo and Twizel as part of the District Plan review.

Further community engagement is being planned as part of this process and details are expected to be announced for opportunities for communities to get involved over the next few weeks.

‘‘There’s obviously room for improvement for council, and this survey lays that out in plain sight. We’re not shying away from this . . .’’ Suzette van Aswegen