Issues with camping ground

More information on the effects of a camping ground at Kakanui, particularly on noise and traffic safety, is being sought by Waitaki District Council-appointed commissioner Robert Nixon, so he can make a decision on whether it can be expanded.

Equipment and Support Ltd has applied to the Waitaki District Council under direction from the Environment Court, for a land use consent to operate the camping ground on the south side of the Kakanui River,Mr Nixon heard evidence on the application on February 7 and indicated he hoped to have a decision within 15 working days.

He now had "significant concerns with the adequacy of information", relating to noise and traffic, available at the hearing.

In a minute sent to the parties involved in the hearing, Mr Nixon emphasised he had not yet made a final decision on the resource consent. He said he was satisfied the site was acceptable for a camping ground with up to 30 sites.

However, that would be subject to appropriate conditions to protect the amenity of the neighbourhood and the safety and efficiency of the adjoining road network.

The resource consent issues have been dragging on since early 2000 and one of the major issues has been access to the site.

At present, access is from Waianakarua Rd, which is preferred by the camping ground company and a neighbour. The council proposes access from River Rd, with the road and intersections upgraded.

"This factor, more than any other, does create something of an impasse for all parties," Mr Nixon said.

He said he could grant consent for access from River Rd, under certain conditions.

In the alternative, he would consider granting access from Waianakarua Rd, subject to an independent traffic assessment confirming this was an acceptable option in terms of traffic safety.

Mr Nixon has also asked for more detail in a landscape plan for the camping ground and the location of the 30 sites within it.