Publication: ph20012012

A proposed tertiary education precinct for Petone has moved a step closer following a decision by a Hutt City Council subcommittee.

The precinct has been proposed by WelTec which says current District Plan rules affecting its Petone campus are confusing and unclear.

The council’s district plan subcommittee last month endorsed WelTec’s proposal to go out for public consultation as a possible change to the District Plan.

Subcommittee chair Roger Styles says the proposal is a positive step for Petone and Hutt City and provides a clear direction for future development of the site.

“WelTec is a significant organisation that makes an important contribution to our city. The decision by council reflects a desire to ensure WelTec continues its commitment to the area.

 “There has been two years of consultation on this issue and it will now be formally notified, including suggested rules around height, car parking and boundary distances.”

Mr Styles says public notification is expected in February. Submissions will be called for and a public hearing will be held around May or June.

WelTec chief executive, Linda Sissons says the council decision will provide her organisation with greater certainty and allow planning to meet changing circumstances.

“We are pleased with the decision which follows significant consultation with the community led by the Petone Community Board. We will continue to work closely with the public at all stages of the process,” she says.

Hutt Mayor Ray Wallace says WelTec brings in millions of dollars into Petone and the wider city. “If it were to move, it would have a detrimental effect on the city.”

He says while the proposal will provide clarity, it will not allow WelTec to simply do what it wants. The overlay only applies within the existing WelTec campus.

Petone Planning Action Group spokeswoman Pam Hanna says nearby residents will want to look closely and what is being proposed. “WelTec wants certainty. So do residents.”