Decisions on the Proposed Gore District Plan due

The Gore District Council will release decisions on its Proposed District Plan this Friday (30 January), marking a major milestone in a careful, independent and thorough five-year review process.

The Proposed District Plan sets the framework for how the Gore District will grow and develop over the coming decades, while protecting the environmental, cultural and community values that make it unique.

The decisions have been made by an independent Hearing Panel, which considered all submissions and evidence received during the formal consultation and hearings.

Gore District Council Chief Executive Debbie Lascelles said the release of decisions reflects a robust and credible planning process.

“The Hearing Panel has taken the time needed to properly consider the public’s views.

“The result is a Plan that provides greater clarity and certainty for landowners, businesses and the wider community, while enabling growth and development in the right places.”

The Proposed District Plan introduces updated zoning and planning rules to better reflect current land-use patterns, future growth needs, and national planning standards.

It also takes a broader approach to recognising Māori cultural values. Rather than limiting consideration to mapped or specific sites, Māori values are integrated throughout the Plan and considered where certain types of resource consent are already required.

“This approach supports practical outcomes. It enables development to proceed, while ensuring environmental and cultural values are appropriately recognised and respected,” Ms Lascelles said.

She stressed the Proposed District Plan does not classify the entire District as Sites and Areas of Significance to Māori (SASM).

Appeals process

The rules in the Proposed District Plan will have legal effect from this Friday.

Any person who made a submission may appeal a decision to the Environment Court, but only on a provision they submitted on.

The appeal period runs from 2 February to 16 March.

Following the close of the appeal period, the provisions under appeal will be clearly identified. After all appeals are resolved, the Plan, or parts of it, becomes operative once its adopted by the Council.

Where to view the decisions

The Proposed District Plan will be available:

• Online at www.goredc.govt.nz
• Gore District Council main office
• Gore Library
• Mataura Library/Service Centre

The Council thanks everyone who took part in the District Plan review process, noting that community involvement has been essential in shaping a future-focused, balanced plan for the Gore District.

All background information, reports and documents are available at www.letstalk.goredc.govt.nz