MASTER PLANNING
Master Planning is a comprehensive planning process that looks at options and opportunities for the short-, medium- and long-term future of the greater Westport area.
The Master Planning process seeks to provide a holistic road map for the community, public and private sectors. It ultimately guides the development of areas of land for future use, creating greater choice for the community around lower-risk areas.
Master Planning is part of the Resilient Westport package of works and being led by the Buller District Council. Stage One was initiated in late 2023 when the Isthmus Group was appointed to undertake the scope of works.
The background and early vision are complete.
The process looks at hazard planning as well as the general wellbeing of the region – with areas of focus around economic development opportunities, social development and where and how Westport should grow. In terms of Resilient Westport’s underlying principles under the PARA framework, it incorporates elements of avoid, retreat and accommodate.
THE WORK IS BEING CARRIED OUT IN 3 DISTINCT STAGES
Creation Of A Vision
Completed with Better Off funding.
Concept Plan And Visibility
This process is underway and being funded by Resilient Westport.
The Final Step
Developed spatial plan and implementation – is to be determined in terms of funding and timing.
“Critical to the process is that this plan is for Westport, by Westport.
Planning exercises of this type are intergenerational and ensure that the whole community can plan for the future, together.”
Community engagement
Significant community engagement will occur throughout 2024 and 2025.
Stakeholder workshops were held in April and May 2024 inviting local people to test the early planning assumptions and contribute their thoughts.
The third round of Master Planning stakeholder engagement sessions between 30 July and 1 August look at spatial planning or lower risk places where future housing might go.
These are facilitated by planning and urban design experts, Isthmus. Though they have largely been by invite to date, drop-in sessions are also being advertised along the way for any members of the public interested in participating and finding out more. The best way to find out more about drop-in sessions is to visit our Facebook page or email master.planning@bdc.govt.nz
Workshops will continue on a roughly six-weekly basis, over the coming months with wider engagement envisioned in the future.
Find out more about the Resilient Westport package on the Buller District Council website or by emailing master.planning@bdc.govt.nz
Media Release: Master Planning a once in a generation opportunity to shape Westport’s future development
Media Release: Opportunity For Community To Engage With Westport Master Planning
Westport community master planners at work.