Zespri are proposing to erect dwellings on one end of a delightful, open area that is used regularly by local residents as a park and recreation area.

If they get the go ahead the buildings will be erected alongside the Miro trees that are a central feature of Miro St at the Mount and provide a safe haven and food source for local tui.

A resident living opposite the proposed development saw men measuring out the area and approached them to see what was going on. He was told to mind his own business.
As the local neighbourhood watch coordinator I was approached by another concerned senior resident who lives directly opposite the proposed development.

She wants to see the open area left as it is as she regularly sees locals enjoying the area and is concerned for a variety of other reasons that she outlined to me and will include in her submission.

Full marks to the council, which have provided detailed information and a submission form to locals who will be directly affected. Please make your views known to council.

Submissions close September. 25

Paul Knights, Mount Maunganui