Submissions closed 18 August 2017.
Whakatāne District Council owns 131 perpetually-renewable leasehold properties within the Whakatāne town centre, most of which are Harbour Endowment land derived from harbour or riverbed reclamation.
Since 2002, a moratorium has been in place to prevent the sale of leasehold land in the town centre. The proposed freeholding policy would continue the general prohibition of land sales, unless a compelling case can be presented to show that such a sale would significantly benefit the community by achieving:
- An attractive and vibrant town centre for residents and visitors to enjoy
- Economic development opportunities which could not be realised if freehold land was not available
- Enhanced environmental, social and cultural values
- Any other benefits the Council decides are relevant
More details are available in the full Proposed Policy below.
Proposed Policy - Freeholding of Leasehold Land - (PDF, 220 KB)
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Realises the current market value of the land and makes funds available for port and harbour development activities | Community loses control of a valuable asset |
Enables economic development – more jobs and enhanced community prosperity | Future lease income reduced |
| Encourages investment in commercially viable, sustainable businesses | Ability to support future community facilities on harbour land may be reduced |