Paraparaumu Beach is different to Waikanae Beach and needs artificial features to enhance visitor appeal. There was a small amount of water today in this pond which has been in the news, but we don’t know if this is the remnant of water from the ‘English summer’ that lasted until about 2 weeks ago. What is the council doing to solve this debacle?
The Council has decided to do nothing to remove this debacle. The Community Board wanted it filled over summer. The Council did not because of costs. On a casting vote by Mayor Gurunathan the Councillors supported the Council view and not the elected Community Boards view.
It will remain empty apart from the occasional Sky juice (rain) to keep it filled. It is likely to remain like this for perhaps two years until a Management Plan and Development Plan for Maclean Park is developed later this year. Three draft concept development plans should be ready for public consultation in April.
Money to finance the development will still need to be approved by Council. We have an empty pond but increased visitors. Oh for some visionaries!
My prediction that road traffic will migrate towards the Beach now the expressway is opened looks to be fulfilled. One can see more traffic along Marine Parade already especially with the expressway sign directing traffic to Kapiti Island and Paraparaumu Beach.
Bernie
from the Council meeting minutes:
“A division was requested:
For the motion [to keep the pond filled with water]: Cr Vining, Cr D Scott, Cr Benton, Cr Elliott, Cr Buswell
Against the motion: Cr M Scott, Cr Howson, Cr Holborow, Cr Cootes, the Mayor”
Mike Cardiff was absent.