Council News
Clean, clear, safe and secure drinking water for the long term
Last week, we released information about Council plans to install a manganese extraction plant this summer, to allow for permanent chlorination. This development is an important step towards providing clean, clear, safe and secure drinking water to Martinborough, for the long term.
The current chlorination arrangements are temporary because the town is being supplied by only one bore, the one with the lowest levels of manganese.
Chlorination is included in a multi-barrier approach to protecting drinking water supplies across New Zealand, including all other Wairarapa towns, as recommended following the Havelock North water crisis.
South Wairarapa District Council Chief Executive Harry Wilson says, “Protecting public health and the resilience of the town’s water supply is our highest priority. Removing the manganese allows for permanent chlorination, which is the most tried and tested measure to ensure safe drinking water.
“Being able to remove manganese means we can once again supply water from all three bores and sustainably meet water demand for Martinborough this summer, and for the long term.”
Until the manganese extraction plant is up and running, it’s possible that water conservation may be required earlier than usual this summer. Council’s proposal is that outdoor water restrictions for Martinborough will be applied if daily water consumption exceeds 1,200 m3/day. The community will be kept informed about water consumption levels and people can expect one week’s notice before a sprinkler ban is put in place.
To find out more or to provide feedback on this project, please visit www.swdc.govt.nz/martinborough-water-supply
Pain Farm update
Pain Farm is a high priority for council officers, particularly given the passionate support shown by the community. A recent report shared with the Martinborough Community Board last month highlighted the need for more than routine maintenance to the property’s homestead, cottage and farmland. New Council management and Martinborough Community Board are committed to ensuring the maintenance is not overlooked again in future.
Forty thousand dollars has been made available for the urgent maintenance and quotes are being requested for the further work required. When the quotes for the additional work are in, a plan will be agreed with the Community Board and actioned in the best interests of the Martinborough community, as per the wishes of George Pain who bequeathed the property to the then Council in 1932.
How do you want South Wairarapa to look in 30 years?
The South Wairarapa District Spatial Plan will help us prepare for ongoing growth and development in our district. It will provide a blueprint for where development should occur, what kind of development, and how much. We want to hear from you. The Discussion Document is available at www.swdc.govt.nz/spatial-plan, as well as in our libraries and the Council office. Feedback closing Friday 16 August.
Wheelie bins are coming soon
Urban households who pay for kerbside rubbish and recycling collection in their rates will soon be receiving a new wheelie bin for non-glass recyclables. Crates will be kept for glass-only recycling. Once the service starts on 9 September, the wheelie bin and crates will need to be put out on alternate weeks. All questions relating to the new service, including whether you’re in the week 1 or week 2 group, will be answered in the handbook delivered with your bin. If you can’t wait, you can access the handbook here – www.wairecycle.nz, or visit swdc.govt.nz/wheelie-bin-recycling-service for more information.
Stand and make a difference
And finally, if you’ve ever wanted to make a difference in your local community, please consider standing for Mayor, Council or the Martinborough Community Board. Candidate nominations are open until noon Friday 16 August. More information available here – www.swdc.govt.nz/local-body-elections-2019
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