A Wanaka holiday home-owner remains resolute in his fight to stop Wanaka Rowing Club facilities being built in front of his property, despite a large majority of public submissions supporting the proposal.
The rowing club has explored eight possible sites in its bid to identify a suitable waterside location. The latest boatshed proposal is on lakeside reserve in the western end of Roys Bay, next to Stoney Creek, below Tapley Paddock.
Lakeside reserve neighbours Lyall and Gaynor Shearer, of Timaru, are opposing the proposal along with other nearby neighbours, on the grounds the building will obstruct views and disturb the peace and serenity of the area.
Public feedback on the proposed site closed yesterday and of roughly 115 submissions made to the Queenstown Lakes District Council, about one third opposed the Stoney Creek site - many arguing it could set a precedent for building on the waterfront. The remainder supported the proposal, favouring a site away from the Wanaka Yacht Club and power boats.
Mr Shearer said living out of town was a disadvantage in rallying support for the campaign he and other neighbours had launched against the Stoney Creek site.
"But we'll give it a good shot. We're not going to give up easily."
He maintained the view that "common sense should prevail" and the lakeside reserve at Stoney Creek be protected from development. Notifying the proposal for public consultation was essential, he said.
The Queenstown Lakes District Council's property services agent, APL Ltd, will consider the community feedback before reporting to the board on whether or not to grant a lease for the boat shed at its next meeting on July 14. If it is granted, further consultation will be required and possibly a hearing.
Another possible boat shed site about 100m further along the Millennium Track was identified last year and is still pegged out as an alternative.
