Jobs and growth from Petone West plan change

A proposed plan change for Petone West provides an opportunity to create jobs and stimulate growth for the area, says Hutt City Council Mayor Ray Wallace.

The council has resolved to move to the next stage and consult with stakeholders and the community on the Proposed Plan Change 29.

The Mayor told the full council there is now an opportunity for residents to support the proposal and raise any issues they may have.

“We have heard from the public and councillors who have all spoken with passion about their concerns and expressed a desire to do the best thing for Petone and Hutt City.” he said.

“This has been a process that has gone on for at least five years – we are now in the final stages where consultation will be focus on encouraging people to have their say on the proposed change,” he said.

The Mayor is seeking the Petone Community Board to take a leadership role in working with residents to ensure informed and detailed submissions are received on the proposed plan change.

The normal consultation period is four weeks but Mayor Wallace said there was strong support by councillors for a two week extension to six weeks.

“The extension will give everyone an opportunity to have their say.

”“Issues raised about the impact on the Jackson Street precinct will be considered as part of the submission process – we want to be working with the Jackson Street Programme and the local community to ensure we get this right.

“There is a common desire by everyone to do the best for Petone and Hutt City – and that unites us all,” he said.

Council will organise an information evening to assist local residents complete submission forms.

District Plan change 29 will affect an area bordered by The Esplanade, Hutt Rd, Petone Ave, Campbell Tce, Victoria St and Sydney St. The area is at present governed by four sets of zoning rules. These will be standardized into a single set of planning regulations allowing a broader mix of retail, residential and commercial uses.