Food for thought in Heathcote Valley

A community initiated food forest in Birdsey Reserve will be supported under a new proposal which has opened for consultation.

Under the proposed two-stage plan a food forest and garden currently being developed by local community groups would be continued, along with a revegetation programme involving students from Heathcote Valley School.

The second stage would be to install dog exercise areas and extend the existing car park.

Waikura Linwood-Central-Heathcote Community Board Chair Alexandra Davids says there has been strong community interest in finding a local space for dogs to play and socialise safely. 

“Having a fenced exercise park accessible in the south-east is long overdue. It means owners can let their dogs off their lead to socialise in a tightly fenced and double gated area without having to travel outside their local areas.

“The two-stage process we’ve proposed would enable the revegetation planting at the reserve to continue, along with the community food forest and garden currently under development.

“Subject to funding and further consultation requirements, stage two would see the dog exercise area installed and the existing car park extended.

"But we really want to hear people’s thoughts on all aspects of the proposed plan. This is their neighbourhood so we want to make sure we get it right.”

Have your say on the Birdsey Reserve landscape plan.

There will also be a drop-in session to find out more, ask any questions and share ideas.

Date: Monday 1 November between 3pm and 5.45pm

Where: Heathcote Valley Community Centre, 45 Bridle Path Road.