Further Consultation Recommended on Oakura Study

A study into Oakura’s future recreation and community facility needs may be considered as part of the Draft Long-Term Plan 2012-2022.

The recommendation was made by the Policy Committee tonight (Tuesday) so the public can have their say on the options that the study raises.

The recommendation will be discussed by the Kaitake Community Board on 1 August, and considered by the full Council at its meeting on 16 August.

The Oakura Recreation and Community Facility Study involved a community survey and workshops, plus an assessment of population and recreation trends, says Manager Parks Mark Bruhn.

It found that, overall, the town is well-served by existing facilities, especially in comparison to similar-sized communities in New Zealand and given its proximity to New Plymouth.

Three options in particular were raised as short-to-medium term issues:

• Altering Oakura Hall so that it can be used by more than one group at the same time, and to improve its heating and ventilation.
• Undertaking a feasibility study on the development of a community multi-sport facility for a number of sport and recreation groups.
• Installing a public toilet on the town’s main street.

“If the Council approves the Policy Committee’s recommendation, all of the matters raised by the study, including these three issues, would be available for the public to comment on through the Long-Term Plan consultation process,” says Mr Bruhn.