Submissions are open for the Western Bay of Plenty Council's changes to the district plan.

The changes are to bring resource management rules up to date with industry and community demands.

Council's manager of resource management, Phillip Martelli, says some of the changes aim to cater for growth across the horticultural sector, particularly the post-harvest kiwifruit industry.

Other changes provide a more efficient rule framework, for walkway and cycleway development in the Western Bay to make these projects easier and less costly.

Rules covering cleanfill activities in rural areas have also been changed to better manage adverse effects on neighbours.

Plan changes also include maintenance of stopbanks and drains in floodable and coastal inundation areas, noise standards within industrial zones, and water supply options at the Rangiuru Business Park.

Submissions are open for Plan Changes 82-91 and will close on Friday, 27 September 2019.

For more information about the plan changes visit: https://www.westernbay.govt.nz/property-rates-and-building/district-plan-and-resource-consents/district-plan/district-plan-changes