Clutha District Council announced a partnership with Otago Corrections Facility (OCF) in June 2021 for the construction of an eventual six 15sqm cabins for its Taylor Park Motor Camp in Milton.
The first two cabins are nearing completion, and are expected to be placed on site later this month.
Kaitangata-Matau ward Cr Bruce Graham said some residents had expressed concerns to him about the intended use of the cabins.
"Some people seem to think, because they’re being built by prisoners, they’re for prisoner overflow or post-release.
"We’ve heard other concerns they may be intended for emergency accommodation.
"Neither of these are the case. They were always being built for worker accommodation to help with staffing shortfalls in Clutha."
The concerns came to light during last week’s council service delivery committee meeting.
A report at the meeting said an eventual eight cabins were now planned, and further council motor camps could be included in the programme in future.
Original details provided for the cabin layout showed them with single beds, and self-contained kitchenettes and bathrooms.
Clutha Mayor Bryan Cadogan said the cabins would not be reserved exclusively for workers, and could also be used by tourists.
"This is such a positive initiative that draws on our district’s strengths to address a number of critical needs. Firstly, our district’s number-one economic inhibitor is a lack of accommodation, and council is proud to proactively encourage growth."
He said partnering with OCF was a "win-win" situation.
"[It enables prisoners] to gain skills and experience that have proven instrumental to positive outcomes, while providing our district with short-term accommodation that can be used by holidaymakers or workers in a tight employment environment.
"It also rejuvenates Taylor Park with additional facilities, which enhance the viability of the park, while providing stimulus to the local economy.
"Ultimately the hope is to replicate this initiative across the district and, in doing so, provide ongoing positive outcomes for all involved."
