RHODODENDRON LAWNS - VICTORY FOR THE PEOPLE OF HAMILTON

NEW ZEALAND - HAMILTON - THE PEOPLE PUSHING BACK, VICTORY FOR DEMOCRACY

A swell of love for a lawn space has pushed back a decision on Hamilton Gardens redevelopments.

Plans to move a car park onto the site of the Rhododendron Lawn riled many gardens lovers, and concerned users such as the Hamilton Gardens Arts Festival.

Hamilton City Council's idea was to create space for more themed gardens, a better entry point for the gardens and to ease traffic congestion on busy days.

But, after a groundswell of support for keeping the lawn where it is, city councillors have handed off the decision to the next council - to be elected in October.

There was a packed public gallery in council chambers on Thursday afternoon, when councillors were due to say yes, no, or not now to the plan.

Councillor Mark Bunting suggested delaying the decision so the community could have more time to have a say, and councillors voted 8-4 in support.

Earlier, they'd heard about concerns from Creative Waikato and the Hamilton Garden Arts Festival Trust, and that a later decision would simply slow down the start of the work.

Council would also have to talk to a potential sponsor to see if that would affect their interest in the project.

Those who voted against putting off the decision were Crs Ryan Hamilton, Garry Mallett, Rob Pascoe, and Leo Tooman.

Cr Paula Southgate had put in apologies for the meeting.

More messages from your neighbours

2 hours ago

Lilies For Sale

Mandy from Chartwell

We will be back selling beautiful fresh lilies in Rototuna from 9am today. Hukanui Road (Opposite KFC). Asiatic and the ever popular Christmas Lilies. $8 per bunch, or 4 for $30. Cash & bank transfer available. DUE TO WEATHER FORECAST FOR TOMORROW & WEDNESDAY, THIS MAY BE OUR LAST DAY - SO BE IN QUICK!!

5 days ago

Neighbourhood Challenge: Who Can Crack This One? ⛓️‍💥❔

The Riddler from The Neighbourly Riddler

What has a head but no brain?

Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post if you know the answer and the big reveal will be posted in the comments at 2pm on the day!

Want to stop seeing these in your newsfeed?
Head here and hover on the Following button on the top right of the page (and it will show Unfollow) and then click it. If it is giving you the option to Follow, then you've successfully unfollowed the Riddles page.