Submissions cover many topics

SEVENTY-EIGHT submissions were received by the Manawatu District Council for its Draft Annual Plan 2008/09 after a four week-long public consultation period ended early this week.

Although the proposed Leisureville project at Makino Park drew the biggest response, there were multiple submissions on rates, roading and funding requests, as well as a number from Rongotea residents on footpaths, toilets and the proposed skateboard park for the township.

Other topics included shared services with Palmerston North City Council, funding for the Bunnythorpe Community Centre, Himatangi Beach development, Timona Park security, the realignment of the Manfeild Park entrance with Fergusson St and rising costs for petrol and household goods.

One of the Leisureville submissions was from 15-year-old Feilding High School student, Tom Coogan, who thought the concept a “great idea” and outlined some possible security measures for the area.

He also suggested that ashtrays and rubbish bins be placed in the park to counter the ugliness caused by cigarette butts and litter.

Numerous organisations filed submissions including the Manawatu Cancer Society, Manawatu Historic Vehicle Collection Trust, Destination Manawatu, New Zealand Rugby Museum, Horizons Regional Council, Feilding and District Historical Society, Bio Commerce Centre, Federated Farmers, Feilding Promotion, Vision Manawatu, Sport Manawatu and the Manawatu Rugby World Cup 2011 Governance Group.

Public hearings regarding the Draft Plan will be held in the Council Chamber on Monday, May 26, and Tuesday, May 27.