Provisions have been made for future city growth after the Palmerston North City Council announced last week land has been set aside for residential development in Whakarongo. It's the first time in 20 years land has been set aside specifically for a residential area.
Whakarongo is on the Western outskirts of Palmerston North and is made up of 62 hectares surrounding James Line, Napier Road and Stoney Creek Road. Fifty hectares has been set aside for residential development which will accommodate around 700 to 900 sections. PNCC also announced the area will boast a one kilometre path that will offer views of the Manawatu River and Tararua Ranges. It will also include an underpass for cars, bicycles and pedestrians which will allow residents to cross the Palmerston North to Gisborne Railway line.
Mayor Jono Naylor said the plan was very exciting.
"We have laid the groundwork that will allow the city to accommodate future growth for the next 15 years."
Policy planner Daniel Batley said the council had been working on the project for over a decade and Whakarongo had been decided on over Te Matai Road, Cloverlea and City West. "This decision gives certainty to developers, land owners and residents. The new suburb will be developed with design-led principles in mind ensuring good community and design outcomes."
