Residents clash over Mt Maunganui golf club rezoning (NZ)
The Mount Maunganui Golf Club is seeking to rezone a portion of its open space land at the end of Fairway Ave for residential development.
This plan, known as Plan Change 33, aims to convert 2780m2 of land into a medium residential zone, potentially allowing the construction of up to 20 houses. The club intends to use the funds generated from this development to renovate the golf course and clubhouse.
Some Fairway Ave residents have expressed concerns about this rezoning proposal. They worry about increased traffic, the risk of golf balls hitting people or children, the impact on infrastructure and the stormwater network, as well as the potential removal of trees. These residents believe that the golf club should have pursued a private rezoning process that would involve more consultation with affected individuals.
A spokesperson for the golf club insists that they have consulted with submitters and held meetings with the immediate neighbors who would be affected by the development. However, residents argue that the process lacks transparency and critical details.
Some residents point out that the golf club had other options to pursue the rezoning application that would have involved more consultation and transparency. They argue that it’s not just a “not-in-my-backyard” objection.
Fairway Ave resident Jenni Carden is concerned about the increased traffic on her street, which is impacting the residents’ quality of life. Although she acknowledges that she has no issue with the club’s operations, she is troubled by the traffic situation.
The golf course, covering 46 hectares, is surrounded by houses and serves as privately owned open green space. A nearby school, Mount Maunganui Intermediate, has a significant student population.
The golf club’s lawyer, Kate Barry-Piceno, argues that submitters had the opportunity to be involved in the process, and the club had consulted conscientiously with submitters and affected neighbors.
The golf club general manager, Michael Williams, emphasizes that the rezoning is necessary to raise funds for the club’s redevelopment, including plans estimated at $6.5 million. This would help the club continue its operations and maintain the course.
The hearings on this rezoning proposal are ongoing and are expected to continue until October 10, with a panel overseeing the proceedings.
Source: www.1news.co.nz
