Dunedin was at risk of becoming two cities, Dunedin South MP Clare Curran says - a city where education was prized with a cluster of services and activities around the University of Otago and the CDB, and the large, flat basin on South Dunedin and its surrounds "which remain largely ignored".
Making her first submission to a council annual plan process, the Labour MP said South Dunedin had long-term issues of rising water tables, crowded and inadequate housing, and a high-density population with high numbers of people on low incomes, elderly people, vulnerable families and people with disabilities.
"The council has made moves to address some of the issues facing the South Dunedin basin.
I applaud them, but I contend they are not enough. Central government must play a part too, but sadly it is not a priority for them right now.
"A cohesive Dunedin is a productive Dunedin. We must maintain Dunedin's egalitarian ethic."
Ms Curran asked the council to fund:
• The Dunedin digital office which co-ordinates digital literacy and access projects.
• A library in South Dunedin.
• A bus shelter in Hillside Rd near Cargill's Corner, South Dunedin.
• A community garden or gardens in South Dunedin.
• A replacement swimming pool for Mosgiel.
She also reiterated her call for the council to consider buying the vacant Forbury School which she said could be used as a community hub facility with a green space and a skateboard park. The school could also be retained for community use.
