A draft management plan for the iconic Queenstown Gardens is now available for public comment.

“The management plan is important to the ongoing protection and vitality of one of the most scenic park settings in the world,’ Queenstown Lakes District Council community services general manager Paul Wilson said.

The gardens were identified and established in 1887 by members of the town’s first Borough Council. The draft plan had sought to reflect not only the original intent of the town’s forefathers but also the mixed uses of the 12.5 ha peninsular, from tennis and bowls to pond-side picnics.

Given the high importance and regard for which the gardens were held, the Council sought early input to the plan.

Understanding what the community wanted and determining how best to deliver those things was essential to delivering a good plan.

“We asked for comment from the community and held open days to ensure we were aware of the differing needs and desires of the community regarding this unique asset as we developed the draft,” Mr Wilson said.

The Council received 38 comments, which it considered in preparation of the draft plan.

He encouraged everyone to take a look at the draft plan, which was available on the Council’s website or from the Council office on Gorge Road.

“Once we adopt this plan it will supersede the existing 1989 plan produced by the Department of Conservation, although we have not overlooked some of the principles and intents contained in that plan,” Mr Wilson said.

The draft plan - received for consultation yesterday (Tuesday) by the Community Services Committee - was notified today and would be open for submissions until 26 November.

“A hearing will then be held at some future point before the Council will be asked to adopt the final plan,” Mr Wilson said.

ENDS
For further information please contact Paul Wilson 03 441 0499.

By: Rebecca