Coromandel Watchdog is supporting residents to submit to TCDC’s Proposed District Plan against the deeply woefully inadequate restrictions on mining.
“Anyone can access, via our website, our guide to submitting as well as use our template submission to tell the council we want a mine-free Coromandel,” said Coromandel Watchdog Coordinator Renee Annan. “We are also hosting workshops next week in Whangamata, Tairua and Thames, alongside a Community Forum in Coromandel Town.”
“Watchdog would like to see the District Plan reflect the commitment the TCDC has made to ensuring the
Coromandel is protected as a highly valuable conservation and heritage area rather than opening it up to mining.”
“There are some good policies and objectives in the plan that we encourage people to support but unfortunately they hold little weight while they are contradicted by the facilitative approach taken to mining – especially underground mining. The plan needs serious strengthening.”
“Mining is provided for in most zones and across the Outstanding Landscape, Natural Character and Amenity Landscape overlays – which should provide the most protection,” said Annan. “Of particular concern is the provisions for Mining Activities in residential, rural, conservation and coastal areas – leaving these areas vulnerable to sitautions like Waihi is unacceptable and will be challenged in the submission process.”
“Writing a submission can seem daunting but people have the opportunity to have a strong voice in decisions affecting the future of this special part of the world – visit watchdog.org.nz and attend one of our workshops, the Coromandel needs you!”
“Watchdog has a regular stall at the Thames market where people can fill in a submission or pick up a guide, so far there has been a great response and people have been very supportive and grateful.”