The Covid-19 lockdown could be an opportunity for the Waitaki District Council to progress Otematata and Omarama’s master plans, Waitaki Mayor Gary Kircher says.
At an emergency meeting of the Waitaki District Council last month, councillors approved master plans for Otematata and Omarama and the development of design guidelines for new buildings in the two Waitaki Valley townships as part of the district plan review.
"The plans are still conceptual at the moment, but there is a real opportunity at the moment to get the details developed," Mr Kircher said.
Each Waitaki Valley community master plan was allocated $20,000. They were developed as "blueprints" to help plan for future development.
The level of engagement throughout the consultation process had been "fantastic", Mr Kircher said.
Draft plans were released for public consultation last year and workshops held in Otematata and Omarama were well-attended.
Based on community feedback, Baxter Design developed the ideas and presented design concepts to the council and Ahuriri Community Board.
Plans for Otematata include new housing and retail/commercial areas, a kiosk for Alps 2 Ocean cyclists and landscaping improvements. Omarama’s plans feature a new retail hub, a new parking layout, a central green space area, an eco-housing development and a new adventure play area.
The master plans are available on the council’s website.
