Bird Park row continues

The Hamilton City Council’s latest plan change to its
Peacocke development doesn’t address the ongoing concerns held by Shaw’s Bird
Park, who still say their bird park will be destroyed.

The Peacocke development aims to create a community for
20,000 Hamiltonians, “protecting and enhancing the environment” at the same
time.

Bird Park owners Margaret and Murray Shaw have been in open rebellion to the Southern Links portion of the development for the past six years. They say the current roading designation will “essentially cut the park in half.”

The Shaws breed Mandarin, Carolina and NZ Grey Teal ducks, as well as rehabilitating other wildlife. Their Park is home to over 500 native trees.

The road designation will also cut into 1.9 metres of the couple’s
home.

The Shaws are also concerned the noise created by the road will scare away any
remaining animals. It is estimated up to 20,000 cars will use the road each day

The Council’s latest plan change doesn’t change the roads
designation.

“Council engaged with all landowners in the Peacocke area
over the past two years to give them the opportunity to provide feedback on the
plan change,” Debra Stan-Barton, Acting City Planning Manager said.

Despite this, the Shaws are unhappy with the amount of
communication they’ve received from the Council.

The Environmental Court heard their objections in May. Environmental
Court Judge M Dickey
reserved the decision and there is no indication when it will be announced.

The Shaws have stated that if the Environmental Court
doesn’t rule in their favour, they will appeal the decision to the High Court.
Over 30,000 people have signed a petition to support the Shaws.

Failing an appeal, the Shaws plan to call on their
supporters to protest the Environmental Court’s decision.

Public submissions
to the latest Peacocke plan change are open until November 5.