This issue of City Scene devotes much of its space (pages 1-10) to information about the draft plan, about what’s planned for your part of the city, and about how you can get involved.

The City Council’s business year runs from the start of July each year to the end of June the following year. The 2003 draft sets out in detail the Council’s spending for the coming year and indicates likely spending and priorities for the years ahead.

It is important to note, however, that spending plans in years beyond the coming year are estimates only and could well change.

The Council’s plans are not set in stone. Between now and mid-July, when it expects to finalise and adopt its 2003 Plan, Councillors and staff have set aside several days in which to listen to people’s opinions about its schemes and priorities. The public consultation side of planning often results in changes being made.

Where to get information

The Draft Annual Plan is available free now from the Civic Offices in Tuam Street, from the Council’s seven service centres around the city, from the Central Library and from the Council’s 11 community libraries.

It is also available electronically on the Internet, with a link from the City Council’s Home Page at www.ccc.govt.nz/AnnualPlan/2003/Draft/

For organisations and individuals who want more detailed information, the four-volume draft Corporate Plan 2003 edition is available for inspection at the Civic Offices and Council Service Centres from 3 May. This document is also linked from the Council’s Web Home Page.

Work in your area

This issue of City Scene includes a centre spread of map-based information showing planned work in your area of the city. The maps show where the Council thinks work should be done and the tables under the maps say what work is planned and when the Council plans to do it.

On Page 9 there are two forms for people who want to have a say.

One is in the same style as the submission form at the back of the printed draft Plan and available on the Council’s website.

The other is a tick-the-box opinion survey about a number of issues on which the Council would like the public’s opinions.

“We want to hear from you,” says Christchurch Mayor Garry Moore. “Please take some time to think about the priorities we are putting forward and let us know if you think we’re on the right track.”