The community's desire for sustainable open space was a driving factor behind the Queenstown Lakes District Council's proposed long term management of Council-owned camp grounds, QLDC chief executive Duncan Field said.

"There is no question that we have an obligation to strategically plan for the future of these public amenities to a standard that befits the location and maximises opportunities for the whole community. A number of the camp ground leases are approaching the end of their term, so this was an ideal time to undertake this process," Mr Field said.

A camp ground steering committee was established last year to identify the existing camp assets and consider future use. A draft strategy was prepared by consultant Chris Rutherford of Prophet Infrastructure Asset Management Limited.

"Some camps have assets owned by QLDC, some are owned by lessees and some a mixture of ownership," Mr Rutherford said.

Overall, camps were found to be in need of an investment in infrastructure, he said.

All camp lessees had been consulted about the contents of the draft, which was now available to the public for submission.

Key recommendations in the draft included:

• The creation of a permanent reserve at Arrowtown and as a result the reduction in the size of the permanent camp ground, as recommended in the Arrowtown Plan.
• To revert the Frankton Camp into open space reserve at the end of the lease term 2018.
• To gradually cease to store caravans on QLDC camp grounds (mainly lake foreshore).
• To no longer renew licenses for private use of land for cabins at Frankton (from 2013) and Arrowtown Camps (from 2011).
• A proposal to redevelop the Wanaka camp ground to a modern designed camp with accommodation, caravan, campervan and tent sites (to be considered).
• QLDC to take a more proactive role in the management of trees on camping grounds.
• Glendhu Bay and Arrowtown to be maintained as 'kiwi-style' camps with minimal built accommodation.

"We know that what we are proposing will certainly have implications for a number of regular holiday makers, some with long associations with the camping grounds, however this strategy is looking forward to achieve the best access for all," Mr Field said.

Camp users and residents alike were encouraged to obtain a copy of the strategy and make submission.

Anyone seeking clarification or further information should contact Mr Rutherford mgmt.plan@paradise.net.nz or phone 021 351 602.

The draft is available on the Council website www.qldc.govt.nz or can be obtained from the Wanaka or Council office email services@qldc.govt.nz  or mail Camp Ground Draft QLDC, Private Bag 50072 Queenstown or phone 03 441 0499.

Submissions close 5pm, November 26, 2004.

By: Kiri