A total of $14.5 million will go towards Upper Harbour facilities, services and environmental activities this financial year.
Upper Harbour Local Board recently approved operational spending for work across parks, recreation facilities, community and environmental projects for the benefit of its local community. A further $7.4 million was allocated towards capital investment in the area.
Board Chair Anna Atkinson is grateful for the immense and supportive response received during the budget consultation as that feedback helped finalise the local board agreement and work programmes for the financial year 2023/24.
“There are many services and activities that are important and supported by our community. Community feedback was very clear that we should prioritise both the environment and the community. Hence, we carefully considered the services that are most valued, what we can deliver in partnership with our community, and services that meet the needs of the fast growing and diverse community.”
Funding means a range of customer, community services and environment activities will be delivered this financial year, including:
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Ecology initiatives assistance programme -$109,607
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Develop Albany Plan - $50,000
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Remediate storm and cyclone affected assets - $100,000
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Develop the Upper Harbour Ethnic Peoples Plan – $80,000
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Local Crime Prevention Fund, safety initiatives investment - $39,171
Atkinson says, “Our priorities continue to be support for the library and community organisations who provide a sense of belonging, well-being, and build local resilience. We will progress a long-term library solution for Albany.
“Other priorities are track upgrades at Sanders and Gill reserves, and the playgrounds at Devonshire Reserve and Herald Island Domain.
“Investing in the environment continues through the Upper Harbour Urban Ngahere Strategy, Upper Harbour Greenways Plan 2019 and the environmental volunteers programme.”
Funding allocated to ecology initiatives includes support for community groups to lead and undertake restoration, protect local native biodiversity and restore ecosystems across Upper Harbour and contribute to the North-West Wildlink, deliver the Upper Harbour Ecological Connectivity Strategy and Upper Harbour Pest Free Strategy.
Other environmental initiatives include community planting, annual pest plant and animal control, local park clean ups and environmental education programmes. Also funded will be council assets damaged in the cyclone and storms.
Atkinson says, “We are committed to developing an Albany Plan that creates a ‘Heart for Albany’ and makes the most of the premium shopping, business district, public transport, and sports facilities in Albany.
“Strengthening ties with our ethnic communities and ensuring they have better access and understanding of local services, facilities and programmes is a key priority for our local board.”
The community has waited a very long time for some projects and due to be delivered this financial year are Te Kori Scott Point - stages 1a and 1b, and the Caribbean Drive sports field upgrade and new toilet facility.
Atkinson says, “We know there are other initiatives important to residents but that aren’t the responsibility of local boards. We will continue to advocate for these initiatives such investment in public transport and footpaths and the public access to open space in Te Onekitirea / Bomb Point in Hobsonville."
The board’s agreement and work programmes are online at aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
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