Protesters halt work on street upgrade

The presence of 12 protesters halted the start of construction on Foxton’s Main St upgrade middle section yesterday morning.

After an impasse lasting a couple of hours, the protesters, who say there has been no real consultation on the upgrade plans, were assured of a meeting with Horowhenua District Council chief executive David Clapperton. They then dispersed allowing work to continue.

The protesters, with district mayor Michael Feyen, gathered well before sunrise on the eastern side of Main St after learning that Horowhenua District Council contractors were due to start work on the next section of the upgrade yesterday.

Until about 8.30am construction workers were busy backfilling kerb and channelling up to the construction barriers that the 12 protesters stood behind. Foxton police sergeant Dave Fraser said construction was then halted while he waited on advice to handle the situation.

Standing with the protesters, Feyen said council’s chief executive David Clapperton had clearly told him that no work would happen north of Wharf St until there had been proper consultation, but that had never happened.

“This is a fight over democracy and consultation,” he said.

Protester Willy McGregor said the small number of protesters at the site was not indicative of support for their cause.

“We have overwhelming support from people in town, many of whom are elderly and frail and are not able to be here with us.” Mr McGregor said his group had gathered hundreds of signatures on petitions from people walking past their protest site. They were happy to walk away following the assurance of a meeting.

“That’s our way of saying we are willing to come to the table and not be a hindrance to anyone, and trust that the meeting with HDC will be sorted out. If the meeting comes to fruition I’ll be happy, but until then the jury’s out.”

Foxton Community Board chair David Roache and Kere Kere ward councillor Ross Brannigan were also at the protest.

Brannigan said the small number of protesters showed the community did not support their views. “Every minute they stand here holding up the work it is costing ratepayers money. We have no problem with the protesters holding their views but as an elected member I have to work in the best interests of the community and to think they can stop this work is just naı¨ve.”

Police iwi liaison sergeant Tracey Wharehoka helped resolve the impasse. A meeting had not been set when this paper went to print.