A proposed shared-use pathway through the Peace Street drainage reserve has been deferred indefinitely following community feedback opposing its development.

Members of the public are reminded Whakatāne Aquatic and Fitness Centre will close for three weeks from this Monday (29 April) to allow contractors to carry out scheduled maintenance and improvement works.

This week, work begins on the planned Ferry Road wastewater pump station and pipe network project. This marks a significant step to modernise essential infrastructure to meet community needs and address environmental challenges.

The existing pump station on Ferry Road, which has been serving the community for more than 60 years, is no longer fit-for-purpose. The new pump station being built will include safety enhancements and electrical upgrades, and allow for increased pumping capacity, ensuring optimal performance well into the future.

Whakatāne District Council is reminding communities that the Mayor and Councillors are keen to hear from people before the draft Long Term Plan formal consultation process finishes this Friday, 12 April.

Last week, Whakatāne District Council Elected Members agreed to begin consultation for the draft Long Term Plan 2024-34 and its supporting documents, with the Mayor and Councillors making it clear they’re expecting community feedback and are listening.

Whakatāne District Mayor, Dr Victor Luca, opened the Environment, Energy and Resilience Committee meeting with a summary of the process to date and highlighted the significant challenges that the current financial environment has presented.

The Whakatāne District Council draft Long Term Plan 2024-34 has been prepared and the Mayor and Councillors will meet this week to adopt the plan for consultation at the Energy, Environment and Resilience Committee meeting on Wednesday (6 March).

Whakatāne District Mayor, Dr Victor Luca says from all accounts this has been one of the most challenging environments in which to develop a draft Long Term Plan.

The Whakatāne District is set to benefit from community projects funded by the Department of Internal Affairs Better Off Funding package throughout 2024.

Work will soon start on the first stage of a much anticipated shared pathway between Edgecumbe and Thornton. 

The project has been a long-standing aspiration for the local Edgecumbe community and is part of the wider vision of creating walking and cycling loops across the Whakatāne District.

Whakatāne District Council secured $900,000 from the Department of Internal Affairs Better Off Funding package to complete the shared pathway, which will enhance the accessibility and enjoyment of the scenic route for people of all ages and abilities.