Stinking organics plant could close while new site sought
From reporter Liz McDonald:
All of Christchurch’s organic waste could be sent to landfill if a proposal to immediately close the city’s composting plant is approved.
City councillors have agreed to move Christchurch’s pungent composting plant, but that could take up to five years and the plant could be shut down in the meantime.
The city council previously resolved to find a solution after years of complaints from residents about foul smells and dust, and notices from Environment Canterbury that the plant was in breach of its resource consent.
At a city council meeting on Thursday, councillors voted to shift the plant, rather than try to improve it on the existing Bromley site. Plans to redevelop it were dropped last year when tenders proved too costly.
They also requested a report from staff within one month on the net costs and implications of “immediately closing” the plant, which is owned by the council and run by private operator Living Earth.
The implications to be considered include the effects on the environment and residents’ quality of life. Continue reading here.
Poll: Do you think banning gang patches is reasonable?
With the government cracking down on gangs, it is now illegal for gang members to display their insignia in public places whether through clothing or their property.
This means arrests can be made if these patches are worn in places like restaurants, shops, on public transport or ferries, and on airplanes. Arrests were made recently at a funeral.
Do you think this ban is reasonable?
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77.1% Yes
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21.3% No
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1.5% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.
Poll: Should all neighbours have to contribute to improvements?
An Auckland court has ruled a woman doesn’t have to contribute towards the cost of fixing a driveway she shares with 10 neighbours.
When thinking about fences, driveways or tree felling, for example, do you think all neighbours should have to pay if the improvements directly benefit them?
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82.1% Yes
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15.1% No
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2.7% Other - I'll share below