The proposals form a key element of the Clutha District Council’s Our Place Lawrence-Tuapeka community plan report, which the council will begin to implement later this year.
The document is the result of more than a year of consultation and planning with the Lawrence-Tuapeka community.
Despite the extensive consultation, business owners in Lawrence yesterday said they were concerned any new "heritage" designation should not come with undue regulation.
The proposals include options for "[encouraging] building owners and developers to use their land and buildings in a way that maintains or enhances heritage value"; and the possibility of the council implementing land-use zoning changes and rules.
Lawrence Junk Shop owner Les Bray said the concept of a "heritage precinct" for Lawrence, encompassing its central business district and neighbouring Colonsay St, was not new and was a "bad idea".
"The problem with precincts is they come with committees and rules. As a property owner and business owner, you want minimal regulation so you can do what you need to to thrive. You don’t want to start having to deal with bureaucrats any time you need to change a light bulb."
Nearby gourmet store Marbary owner Margie Stevens agreed with Mr Bray about regulations, but said she could see possible advantages.
"By defining [the area’s] heritage character, it could be a drawcard for tourists, and enrich their experience. But I’d like to understand what our responsibilities were in relation to conserving the heritage features of our properties."
Visiting Lawrence on a cycle tour were Aucklanders Lynne and Keith Parsons
who were surprised the town did not have a heritage precinct.
"We’ve picked up bits [of information] from tour operators and just by looking around, but if you had a clearly defined heritage area with heritage trails, it would be a great thing for tourists like us," Mrs Parsons said.
The report leaves a timeframe and budget for any changes undefined.
"[A] project can generally proceed where financially it is rates-neutral, but where a project would be seeking additional council funding it would go through a due process for consultation via the long-term plan and annual plan process."
