Marlborough is facing some critical challenges related to growth.
At the heart of it, we can look at this as a good problem to have - growth means jobs and incomes, a higher standard of living and room for investment and progress across our industries - but it’s nevertheless an issue we continually need to manage.
Many of Marlborough’s major industries are still in dynamic growth phases, but that growth must be supported by an increasing workforce across all levels, from low-skilled labour through to specialist and executive roles. This creates the need for increased support from other sectors such as health, education, retail and more.
Another key challenge as a result of growth is the need to ensure the region has capacity for enough housing to help attract and retain the necessary workforce.
Council is tasked with making prudent decisions relating to the consent process for new and existing housing development, to ensure these processes are robust but not prohibitive.
A good supply of zoned land suitable for housing is being made available over coming years. Already, nearly 400 sections (a mix of greenfield and infill) are immediately available for potential development, and more than 500 greenfield lots will be available for development in 2021. There is further potential for another nearly 1,100 greenfield sections, pending planning and infrastructure.
Housing isn’t just a Council issue to manage, however. It’s a wider community issue that must draw in public and private industry and central government.
For this reason, Council established a Smart+Connected Labour and Skills Group, bringing together industry organisations, academia, community groups and government agencies.
This is a case of working together for the benefit of the entire region to continue to prosper in the future through strong, considered economic development. Because while a strong, growing economy is important for Marlborough’s ultimate success, it’s only one piece of the puzzle that holds our region together.
At the Council table, we must remember that any new housing developments must be balanced with the quality of life that brings, and keeps, us all here. Our social infrastructure and environment shouldn’t be jeopardised by rushed decisions or projects.
As Mayor it’s my role to lead a team of Councillors though these decision-making processes with integrity and by drawing on strong community engagement. Weighing up all the factors in a balanced, effective manner requires exemplary governance from a Mayor.
The ability to do that comes with experience, knowledge of the way our region works and an expert grasp on all relevant processes and laws.
As we face the challenge of an increasing population and need for more housing, we have to keep moving forward in a manner that will always retain the great Marlborough lifestyle that we’re all here to enjoy, while paving the way for continued sustainable growth.
