richard.davison@odt.co.nz

Milton retailers are cautiously optimistic about a second phase of upgrades to the town’s main street, following a "quick and efficient" first phase.

A southern mayor says a threat to crowd-fund a judicial review of anticipated double-figure rates increases would not make financial sense for ratepayers.

Project leaders are delighted work can finally begin on a boat ramp upgrade in South Otago, following years of bureaucratic and other delays.

A Southern surf club is "pausing" a potential $2 million-plus rebuild to allow for integration of public toilets, pending community feedback.

One of the country’s largest potential wind farms could use the government’s recently proposed "fast track" consenting legislation to speed its construction in South Otago.

Only one man seems to know and he is not talking.

A conservation advocacy group says a near $500,000 spend on eliminating a single stoat was a "good return on investment".

Shoreline erosion is looming large in the minds of South Coast residents, in the results of a recent community consultation.

A former senior staff member says he has serious concerns the Clutha District Council is generating a "tsunami of debt".

In keeping with the district’s rural character, organisers of the Clinton School 150th jubilee say they are planning a "plain and simple" celebration this coming spring.

The fate of Milton’s council-owned campground is now uncertain, following a decision yesterday to remove controversial cabins from adjoining parkland.

A Southern council may soon be faced with a costly climbdown, depending on the outcome of a meeting this afternoon.

South Otago community stalwart Ruth Carraway is expecting characteristically big smiles — and more than a few tears — as she departs for the northern hemisphere next week.