Support urged for new R.P.A. plan

Press, 8 December 1976, Page 1

Support urged for new R.P.A. plan

The Christchurch Regional Planning Authority’s indicative plan, or its proposals for dealing with regional growth, should not become a “political football,” said the authority’s chairman (Mr D. B. Rich) yesterday. “There is no reason to believe that, there is anything in the proposals that will give offence to the Government — and we must have firm Government support,” he said. Mr Rich was speaking at a press conference before the authority’s meeting — at which the indicative plan was approved — to show the way the regional scheme might be prepared. He said that it had become urgent to produce a short-term regional scheme to fill the gap caused by the cancellation of the Rolleston new town project, and the relief it would have given to the growth of Christchurch. Although the indicative plan suggested that the regional scheme should provide for redevelopment for Christchurch, the enlargement of Rangiora and Kaiapoi. and a study of possible growth along the Main South Road, Mr Rich said that other options were

open to the planners. The short-term planning would not prejudice long-term planning.. “This is a simple plan, of far-reaching consequences,” said Mr Rich. “It requires appreciation and support as a short-term solution to the problem — the support of the Government, local government, and the community.” Mr Rich said that although the regional scheme should be prepared within 18 months to two years, it would probably be another two years before all processes were completed and it became operative. Mr P. J. McAloon, chairman of the authority’s indicative plan promotion committee, said the involvement of the public was unique in New Zealand, and new to the authority. The public could study the proposals, and make submissions. The indicative plan, already studied by the authority in committee, was adopted with a minimum of discussion: but Mr I. G Clark paid a tribute to those responsible — the authority’s staff and Messrs D. Sheppard and M. Douglass, consultants. “They have reduced com-

mon sense to a verv readable report,” Mr Clark said. The authority referred the plan to its member local bodies and asked for comments by May 3 next. It was agreed to make urgent submissions to the Government for its endorsement of the plan. The indicative plan promotion committee, set up to act as liaison between the public and the authority, was authorised to sit as required to receive submissions, and to report its conclusions to the authority. It was agreed that the preparation of the regional scheme be expedited, with continuing liaison with Government departments. Plan details, P. 12