Minister for the Environment Nick Smith has given HDW the authority to develop and operate the Hunter Downs Irrigation Scheme in South Canterbury.
The offer for shares in HDW closed on April 28, the company acknowledging at the time the demand did not support the full 21,000ha scheme. However, HDW chairman Andrew Fraser felt there was strong support for an irrigation scheme. He could not be contacted for his reaction to the Government’s decision.
Dr Smith said in a press release a requiring authority had the ability to set aside land for infrastructure, such as road, rail, energy or water.
"It will give HDW the authority to apply to the Timaru and Waimate councils and Environment Canterbury for the necessary designations to implement the scheme."
HDW spokeswoman Stacey Scott said in a press release the application for "requiring authority status" was made to assist with the designation of land for the core water take and distribution infrastructure.
