Ōmokoroa Town Centre design plans get go ahead after no appeal to resource consent

Artists impression of a future Ōmokoroa Town Centre. Photo / Supplied

Detailed design and planning for a future Ōmokoroa Town Centre can now officially commence as there have been no appeals to the granting of a resource consent.

Resource consent was granted for the project on May 10 by independent commissioners appointed by the Western Bay of Plenty Council.

The deadline to lodge an appeal to Environment Court expired on May 31.

JACE Group director Craig Lemon said he was pleased they can now proceed with certainty on planning and preparing the 5.3ha site, at 404 Omokoroa Rd, for development.

Artists impression of a future Ōmokoroa Town Centre. Photo / Supplied

"We are grateful the independent commissioners had the conviction to approve consent for an application driven by a locally owned and community invested company.

"But we were always aware of the inherent possibility that an appeal could be lodged, so weren't prepared to release any further details until we were confident we could do so."

With Land Use and Subdivision consent granted it means the company can shift to the next stage of planning.

Artists impression of a future Ōmokoroa Town Centre. Photo / Supplied

Reiterating that development will be staged in response to demand, JACE Group will be reviewing the commercial application of consent conditions in the detailed design process and is set to begin negotiations with interested tenants.

The mixed-use commercial town centre will feature retail space, cafes, restaurants, accommodation, childcare centre, offices, and a civic centre.

Residential dwellings and reserve areas are also included.

"The community can expect to see some low-level activity on-site over the coming months as we progressively cease operating the site as a kiwifruit orchard and start ground preparation in readiness for future roading and infrastructure services," Lemon said.

With multiple community projects due to commence on the peninsula including the neighbouring school, JACE Group continues to focus on remaining transparent with all stakeholders involved.

Lemon said locals should follow the company's Facebook page (JACE Group) and keep an eye on local media for updates as planning gets under way.