Local views help shape Bunnythorpe’s Community Plan

The team at Palmerston North City Council have been working with the Bunnythorpe community to build a plan for the future of their village.

Their General Manager of Strategic Planning David Murphy says having a community plan is important so that growth in the area takes into account the needs of those who live there.

“Bunnythorpe is likely to experience some big changes over the next 30 years, including the development of the nearby Te Utanganui, Central New Zealand Distribution Hub and planning for the Manawatū Regional Freight Ring Road.   

“These things will affect the future of the village, so it’s important there is a community plan so that these projects can be informed by the values and aspirations of the Bunnythorpe community.”

As part of developing the Community Plan for Bunnythorpe, the council have been gathering feedback on what things the community think are most important for the future of the village.   

Feedback consistently highlighted a desire for shared spaces and community events where people can come together and enjoy each other's company. Improved safety, along with more opportunities for recreation and environmental projects, were also key priorities. 

Mr Murphy says the purpose of the plan is to provide a map of the journey over the next 25-30 years. 

“This plan is to be used as a community-led guide. It’s not a list of projects that the council or other agencies will automatically fund or deliver, or a substitute for further engagement on specific projects that affect the village. Instead, it’s a road map that puts Bunnythorpe residents in the driver’s seat to shape their future.

“A community plan is a living document somewhere to contain the shared vision of the people of Bunnythorpe that they can use as a reference to guide and to support planning decisions, infrastructure projects, and funding applications for community initiatives. It’s also a plan that can and will evolve. As things change, the community plan will be reviewed and updated to reflect new developments and priorities.”

To read the plan go to pncc.govt.nz/Bunnythorpe.