Council to push ahead with costly proposal

The council is moving ahead with the controversial project formerly known as Ka¯ piti Gateway.

Although the cost increased from $4.6 million (March 2021) to $7.8m, councillors recently gave their support for the project.

The council has put in an application for $1m to the Ministry of Culture and Heritage’s Environment and Culture Fund to help fund the increase.

The public’s ability to comment on the project will, however, be limited after an independent commissioner decided the resource consent application would be a limited notification.

Glen O’Connor, acting group manager for infrastructure services, says the independent processing officer assessed the application as having only minor effects.

‘‘Limited notification means people who are identified as being affected can make a submission on the proposal. Submissions should refer to the environmental effects related to the notification of the application,’’ he says.

His report noted Te Uruhi will provide positive effects that are not currently available for visitors to Ka¯ piti Island by improving amenities, as well as opportunities for public education.

Affected parties will be contacted and have 20 working days to make a submission. If necessary, a hearing will be held.

Any hearing will be overseen by a commissioner who is independent of the council.

The council believes Te Uruhi will offer a wide range of benefits, which include:

■ Improved biosecurity practices for Ka¯ piti Island

■ Enhanced visitors’ experience of Maclean Park and Ka¯ piti Island

■ Inform and engage locals and visitors about the area’s heritage

■ Enhance the retail and commercial activities at Paraparaumu Beach.