Draft plan released

Big things are planned for Auckland city this year.

Auckland City Council has just released its draft annual plan.

Major projects include the ongoing upgrade to the Auckland Art Gallery, a marine event’s centre, the Aotea Square redevelopment and a range of projects based on the Rugby World Cup 2011.

Focus is also on stormwater, beaches, walkways and transport – including footpath upgrades.

The plan has been criticised by City Vison-Labour councillors for excluding the Otahuhu swimming pool, Music and Arts Glen Innes Centre and an upgrade for Mayfair Place, Glen Innes.

The plan only applies to the period between July 1 and October 30.

The Auckland Transition Agency is preparing a planning document for the new Auckland Council for the remaining eight months.

Councillor and finance and strategy committee chair-man Douglas Armstrong says the council has kept rates to the level of inflation "while ensuring necessary funding is available for our city to grow and prosper".

The level of inflation this year is three percent.

Council is seeking feedback until March 31 in regards to some changes to the budgets.

The full list of changes is at www.aucklandcity.govt.nz/annualplan.

- © Fairfax NZ News