Council seeking feedback on Eely Point options

The Queenstown Lakes District Council is seeking public feedback on a draft report outlining...
The Queenstown Lakes District Council is seeking public feedback on a draft report outlining development options for Wanaka’s Eely Point recreational reserve. Photo: Supplied
Eely Point could become a recreational hub  if potential development concepts outlined in the Queenstown Lakes District Council’s Wanaka  lakefront development plan draft report become a reality.

The draft report is the latest stage of the QLDC’s ongoing Wanaka  lakefront reserves management plan first published in 2014.

The report outlines plans to improve connectivity with existing networks within the reserve, accommodate a variety of facilities, activities and events that cater for a range of users, while also maintaining open-space character and the ability to accomodate pedestrians and cyclists.

Three development concepts have been created by Reset Urban Design,  with each concept providing different amenities to the public, such as more ecology, facilities, and parking.

The council is seeking public feedback on the report  via its website, while there will also be a drop-in session at the Eely Point scout den on December 12.

QLDC Wanaka parks and reserves officer Diana Manson said it was an important opportunity for the community to influence the future development of a much-loved recreational space.

"The reserve stretches from the scout den to Bremner Bay, an area enjoyed by a huge variety of locals and visitors. With activity about to peak over summer, this is the perfect time for people to think about how they currently use the reserve and how they’d like to see it develop as our population continues to grow.

"There are currently no restrictions on vehicle access within the reserve so this is one area we’d like to explore with people, along with questions around the potential for further building, replanting and options for funding facilities like playgrounds, public art, fitness trails and parking," Ms Manson said.

Coastguard Wanaka has already announced its support for the Wanaka community to have an input into the potential development of Eely Point.

President Jonathan Walmisley said he was pleased to see two of the concepts include a Wanaka  marine rescue centre, although the site  north of the scout den was preferred.

sean.nugent@odt.co.nz

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