Help set the direction in our local board area

LEARN MORE & HAVE YOUR SAY HERE

One of the first things the new Devonport-Takapuna Local Board (DTLB) has progressed, with the hard work and support of our amazing Council staff, is the new Local Board Plan (LBP) 2020-2023. This is a high-level guiding document that sets the direction on where and how we invest in our area. The draft plan is now open for review and your feedback.

The draft LBP is the result of multiple workshops and a lot of stakeholder engagement, and I know many of you were a part of that process. This LBP is, I believe, a fantastic improvement on previous plans. Our section on transport shows a shift in thinking and states our intention to focus on environmental transport outcomes; projects that lead to a stronger take-up of active modes and asks for better-connected, affordable and efficient public transport. We want to see the progression of the Francis-Esmonde pathway which is the missing link in the Green Route from Devonport all the way to Esmonde Road. We want to see the Patuone path upgrade continue, connecting cyclists and pedestrians to Takapuna Metro Centre.

We state our intention to push hard on water quality to ensure our beaches are swimmable 365 days a year, and we’re committed to investing in projects that restore and enhance our natural habitats and grow our native biodiversity.

Most significantly, I believe, is that for the first time ever, we’re placing Māori Values as one of our 6 primary outcomes, recognizing how much this leads to better social, environmental and cultural outcomes for mana whenua, mātāwaka and all other members of the community.

So my friends, now is your opportunity to really shout loud about the things captured in this plan that are most meaningful to you – if cash is limited (and it is) where would you like to see it spent first? The plan doesn’t get into the detail of every single project, proposed or possible – so if there’s something you absolutely want us to push forward, then please note it.

The outcome areas are below, but if there’s a single thing you want to make sure we get done over the next three years, then be sure to comment on it in the space made available for comments.

1. Environment & Heritage:
   1. Improve water quality in our marine environment, the Wairau Catchment and Lake Pupuke.
   2. Eliminate or control plant and animal pests to allow native trees and birds to thrive.
   3. Significant environmental challenges are acknowledged and responded to.
   4. Communities live more sustainably and are prepared for the impacts of climate change.
   5. Improve biodiversity outcomes and mitigate effects on carbon emissions.
   6. Conserve and celebrate our heritage areas, features and buildings.
2. Parks Facilities and Open Spaces:
   1. Provide a high-quality network of parks and open space to meet community needs now and in the future.
   2. Our parks and open spaces feel safe and welcoming.
   3. Community facilities are fit for purpose.
3. Community Participation and Wellbeing
   1. Communities feel safe, connected and have access to services, programmes, and activities that create a sense of wellbeing and belonging.
   2. Everyone has the opportunity to be active and remain fit and healthy, whatever their age or ability.
   3. Diversity and cultural heritage are celebrated.
   4. Communities feel like they can contribute to decisions that affect them.
4. Transport and Access
   1. Reduce congestion on roads and carbon emissions by providing public transport options that are integrated, reliable, affordable and convenient.
   2. Public transport infrastructure is fit for purpose, safe and accommodates new travel modes favoured by growing populations.
   3. A network of well-placed, accessible and attractive walking and cycleways that encourage use of active modes and get people where they want to be.
   4. Our roads, footpaths, walkways and cycleways are well designed and maintained and allow our residents to move safely around the area.
5. Opportunity, prosperity and growth:
   1. Our town centres are vibrant, offering events and activities that attract visitors and support local businesses.
   2. Our town centres are safe and attractive for residents, businesses and visitors.
   3. Training and employment opportunities allow people to stay in their own areas and reduce travel.
   4. Our town centres and villages are attractive tourist destinations.
6. Māori values ngā tikanga a te Māori.
   1. Celebrate Māori culture and support te reo Māori to flourish.
   2. Māori narratives and history are reflected in our built and natural environment.
   3. Māori communities are actively engaged to build a sense of belonging.
   4. Develop a relationship agreement with iwi.