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: Charrette workshops discuss proposed new settlement 
Servicing a proposed new settlement at Ocean Beach generated much of today’s charrette workshop discussions.
Presentations from local experts outlined the potential for servicing the popular beachside destination with town water and wastewater networks. Several roading solutions were also explored taking into account any proposed increase in the population-base as well as the existing peak summer demand period between Dec - Feb.
Service costs would depend on the number of dwellings built at the beach and the route chosen for servicing.
The ocean beach charrette planning and design process, which has been jointly commissioned by Hastings District Council and Hill Country Corporation, is being held at Haupouri Station Woolshed.
Independent facilitators who are world-renowned town planners and urban designers are overseeing the process.
The workshops allow designers to get a feel for the local community and gain knowledge of local issues and concerns before they set about sketching draft concepts.
The aim of the charrette is to come up with a draft master plan for the coastal area which better manages its natural assets to guide conservation, land use, public access and development over the next 50 – 100 years.
Local maori commented on the disposal of domestic sewage (from showers, baths, toilets & kitchens) and also on the need to protect the environment.
The resource management and district planning process was discussed at length giving people a broad understanding of how Council manages the environment and, in particular, the need to protect the natural values of the Ocean Beach landscape.
The traffic and transport workshop gave good insight from all parties involved. Local Maori, Hill Country and Hastings District Council echoed their aspirations for adequate public access to the beach with sufficient parking, recreation and amenities.
Variations of road access options were put on the table and issues such as land slips and their effect on long-term access was discussed.
Vehicles on the beach also generated some lively discussion because of coastal erosion and pedestrian safety issues. Safe recreational swimming spots were also pointed out by a member of the Ocean Beach Surf Lifesaving Club offering invaluable information to the design team.
Members of the public who have not had a chance to come out to any weekday workshops have an opportunity to have their say this Saturday (8 October). The community forum begins at 1:30pm at the Haupouri Station woolshed. Follow the road signs.
Free guided site tours, which depart twice daily from the woolshed, can be booked by phoning Hill Country on 878 2010.
The site tours, over private land, have proved popular thus far providing people with an opportunity to experience aspects of Ocean Beach that they may not have seen before.
-ENDS-
For more information contact
Julia Lang
Communications Manager
Ph: (06) 874 7961
Cell: 027 275 5205
Email: oceanbeachcharrette@hotmail.com
