A new irrigation scheme for the Waimate district that promises a big boost in jobs and income has won support from the Waimate District Council.
The council last week decided to buy 1250 shares in the Hunter Downs irrigation scheme which will initially cost it $31,250 but could cost another $218,750 if the scheme goes ahead.
The Hunter Downs scheme being promoted by Hunter Downs Irrigation Ltd could irrigate up to 40,000ha in the Waimate area with 20.5cumecs of water from the lower Waitaki River. It could create 1800 full-time equivalent positions and provide a $260 million boost to the South Canterbury economy.
To progress the scheme to the stage where a decision to build the scheme can be made requires an investment in shares of at least $4 million, which has been achieved.
The district council has decided to pay $25 a share for 1250 shares. If the scheme proceeds, there will be two further calls on its investment of $87.50 a share but that will require further approval by the council before it pays any more money.
If the council supports the scheme all the way, its total investment will be $250,000.
A report to the council about the investment identified economic, job and environmental benefits from the scheme.
Extra water would be provided to enhance lowland streams and Lake Wainono as an environmental gain.
The scheme could also provide drinking water, reducing pressure on existing supplies.
