Yesterday

Share this story

Potential uses for the only piece of commercially zoned, Council-owned land within Akaroa are being sought.

Akaroa’s “BP Meats” site, located at 67-67A Rue Lavaud, was acquired by the Council in 2000. There has been a lot of discussion among the wider community since then regarding the potential of the site and how it should be developed.

Possible options were looked at in the Akaroa Places and Spaces Plan 2011 but progress was interrupted by the earthquakes.

“It’s time to determine some suitable land uses for the site with input from the community,” says Bruce Rendall, Head of Facilities and Property.

“In recent years there have been some spontaneous proposals presented by community members to the Council about the site. We want to hear the different visions the community have for this unique piece of land that presents an exciting opportunity for Akaroa.”

Mr Rendall says there are various potential land uses for the site, ranging from retail and commercial services to a public space or new location for the historical Jeannie’s/Yew Cottage – and the Council is open to hearing all ideas.

“It is big enough to accommodate multiple uses that could exist harmoniously and benefit the whole community, although these must comply with certain criteria such as commercial feasibility and relevant regulations, including design guidelines.”

Consultation runs from Thursday, 31 October to 11.59pm on Sunday, 24 November 2024. Council staff will be available to answer questions about the consultation at the Akaroa Farmers Market on Saturday 2 and Saturday 16 November, from 9am until midday.

Feedback will help inform a draft plan for the site, with all ideas raised to be considered along with economic and other technical data and analysis and the recently updated section of the Akaroa Places and Spaces Plan that identifies some potential land use options for the site.

This information will be used by staff to develop preferred land use options that will be presented to the Te Pātaka o Rākaihautū Banks Peninsula Community Board and then shared with the community for further feedback before the future use of the land is decided.

Akaroa and the wider Akaroa Harbour is of great cultural significance to Ngāi Tahu and the Council is working closely with Ōnuku Rūnanga, to ensure they have the opportunity to share their potential land use ideas for the site for consideration alongside others from the community.

It is also working with lease holders currently using buildings located on the site, keeping them informed about potential development and inviting them to share their ideas.

Visit letstalk.ccc.govt.nz for more information or to give feedback.