21 May 2018
Media: Rotorua Daily Post
Topic: Provincial Growth Fund
Enquiry
Rotorua Daily Post sought comment from Council regarding the Provincial Growth Fund and Council's plans to use some of the fund for the Forest and the Lakefront developments.
Why is it valuable, why ask for some for these particular projects (if they are included in the final LTP obviously), any other plans to put your hand up for it?
Response
From Strategy Group Manager Jean-Paul Gaston:
The lakefront and Tokorangi Forest (Redwoods) developments are included in the proposed 2018-28 Long-term Plan as projects that will drive future progress and enhance Rotorua's strengths, with potential to provide economic and community benefits, support iwi investment and return on investment and create local jobs.
Bay of Plenty is among the regions identified for early investment from the PGF and the lakefront and forest projects fit the fund's aims and priorities. They are also priority projects in the Bay of Connections Visitor Economy Strategy and our intention to apply to the PGF has been endorsed by Bay of Connections and by Regional Economic Development, Forestry and Infrastructure Minister Shane Jones who encouraged us to apply.
We have applied for $800,000 from the fund to help us develop the business case and detailed designs that will enable us to then apply for funding to deliver the projects.
Background/additional info for you re the Provincial Growth Fund
Aims to lift productivity potential in the provinces; priorities are to enhance economic development opportunities, create sustainable jobs, enable Māori to reach their full potential, boost social inclusion and participation, build resilient communities, and help meet NZ's climate change targets.
All provinces are eligible for funding, however, Tairāwhiti/East Coast, Hawke's Bay, Tai Tokerau/Northland, Bay of Plenty, West Coast and Manawatū-Whanganui have been identified for early investment.
See http://www.mbie.govt.nz/info-services/sectors-industries/regions-cities/regional-economic-development for more about the fund
See https://www.nzherald.co.nz/rotorua-daily-post/business/news/article.cfm?c_id=1503434&objectid=12026145 re Minister Jones encouraging Rotorua applications to the fund
