Small Rates Rises ­ Excellent Service

Christchurch City Council Draft Plan 1998 spells good news to ratepayers, with an average rates rise of just 1.94 per cent, a significant reduction on the projected 3.66 per cent rise forecast last year.

Meanwhile a series of new programmes and services to benefit Christchurch people are included in the plan. Minimising rates increases while maintaining essential services and continuing to enhance the quality of life in the City has been possible through a number of efficiency measures and through $138 million capital repatriation from the Council's holding company Christchurch City Holdings Ltd. The $138 Million has made possible repaying Council's debt, which has reduced servicing costs allowing a reduction in rates.

Other highlights of the Draft Plan include:

• Redevelopment of the Bromley wastewater treatment plant worth $35 million over five years to keep pace with the growth of the City
• Increasing footpath resurfacing to 120 km per year from (115 Km)
• Maintaining roads, water and sewerage services to existing or improved standards
• Allocating $4 million to ensure the successful redevelopment of Lancaster Park, subject to consultation
• Improving transport options in the City Centre with free buses on Saturdays, a free voucher system for weekend car parking and a free electric shuttle bus service
• Major upgrading work for QEII Park
• Building the new Centennial Leisure Pool
• Increasing the publication of City Scene to once a month
• Establishing a fund to help bring top international events to Christchurch
• Efficiency gains of $580,000 from working smarter across all City Council activities.

Have Your Say

What do you think should be the priorities for Christchurch over the next 12 months? The Christchurch City Council Draft Plan 1998 has been prepared following consultation with many different groups across the community. Public consultation on the Draft Plan will continue until the end of May. The two volumes of the Christchurch City Council Draft Plan 1998 are available from the Civic Offices, Council service centres, branches of the Canterbury Public Library or by calling 941 8438