Aucklanders have spoken on future of communities

A new era in the development of local communities is a step closer as Auckland’s local boards consider residents’ views on the future of their area.

A month-long period for submissions on draft local board plans – blueprints for Auckland’s diverse local communities – closed at 4pm on Monday 8 August.

Auckland Council's Local Board Services Manager, Karen Lyons, says: “Aucklanders have spoken on the things that matter to them most in their local communities. So far, we have received around 5,000 submissions on the draft local board plans, with many people writing passionately on issues such as heritage, transport, recreation facilities and the environment.”

“We thank all those who took the time to make their voice heard. Your views will help shape what happens in your area over the next three years and beyond.”

Each of Auckland’s 21 local boards have prepared draft local board plans that set out local aspirations and priorities and will guide decisions the local boards make over the next three years and beyond. Local board plans will feed into other key Auckland Council plans, such as the Auckland Plan and 2012-22 Long-term Plan.

Hearings are now underway at which people can speak in support of their submissions. Others are welcome to attend and listen to discussions on their local area. Local boards will then decide what changes will be made to the draft plan before a final version is adopted in October.

Information on the hearings taking place in your area is available online at www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/haveyoursay, or by calling the Auckland Council on
(09) 301 0101