A public response to a proposed digital strategy for Dunedin has been mostly positive, despite concerns including fears of radiation from wireless internet, and the cost of the exercise.
A Dunedin City Council hearings committee of Crs Dave Cull and Kate Wilson, and Otago Polytechnic chief information officer Michael Collins, met last week to hear some of the almost 50 submissions received.
The draft strategy was released recently for public consultation, and was planned to work alongside the Government's nationwide deployment of broadband infrastructure.
Its aims included increasing the access, affordability and the quality of digital networks, supporting digital innovation across the city, raising the level of knowledge and skills to use the technology, and increasing assurance that digital services were safe and reliable.
An extensive submission from New Zealand Computer Society chief executive Paul Matthews said the strategy had the potential to drive both digital literacy in Dunedin, and contribute to "significant economic growth".
Mr Matthews said Dunedin had the potential to be New Zealand's leading innovation hub, but implementation of the strategy was essential, and it had to be supported by city leaders.
Other submitters included social-service agencies keen to ensure all residents had the opportunity to take part in the technology available, people in the industry, and academics.
Oamaru resident Rob Hutchins raised concerns about the radiation effects of wireless internet, while Alistair Mackay said in his submission the strategy was "empire building" by the council.
Steering group chairman Cr Cull said thegroup would modify the strategy, taking submissions into account.
That would go either to the council's economic development committee, or to the full council for approval.
It was hoped implementation could start this year.
