Council responds to request to assess Westport Water Catchment land use

Buller District Council is responding to a request from Stevenson Mining Ltd to assess whether all the land currently designated for the Westport Water Catchment is required for that purpose.

The request does not seek access to the Te Kuha mine site. It is solely focused on whether the entire area of land vested to Council to use by the Crown is required for the Westport Water Catchment.

Chief Executive Simon Pickford says: “Council has not made any decisions. We are simply undertaking an assessment process to understand whether all the land is still needed for water catchment purposes, as requested.”

If the assessment shows that not all of the land is needed to meet the current and future requirements of the Westport water supply, Council may to consider writing to the Minister of Conservation, who would be responsible for making any decision on divesting a portion of the land.

As the land is Crown-owned, any change would require Ministerial approval. Depending on the outcome of the assessment, Council will also consider whether community consultation is required before making any approach to the Minister.

“It’s important to be clear, this is not a decision about mining or granting access to any specific activity,” says Mr Pickford. “Council’s role is to consider the request and review whether the full catchment area remains necessary.”

Any costs associated with this process will be paid for by Stevenson Mining Ltd, not by Buller District ratepayers.

The land in question was vested in Council by the Government for water catchment purposes. The Council has a duty to manage this resource responsibly, ensuring the protection of the community’s water supply and careful land use over time.

Mayor Jamie Cleine adds, “We understand this is a topic of interest for many in our community. Council is committed to a transparent process and will ensure people are kept informed as it progresses.”

Further updates will be provided as information becomes available.

-ENDS-

For further information please contact:
Community Engagement Team
Buller District Council
Media.Enquiries@bdc.govt.nz 

Disclaimer
The information in this media release was correct at time of publication. Changes in circumstances after the time of publication may impact on the accuracy of the information.