Christchurch City Council is calling on the Government to re-think its approach to Three Waters Reform in its submissions on two bills.

The Council’s submissions raise concerns about the Government’s approach to reforming three waters, as well as the speed of the roll-out, and lack of meaningful engagement with impacted communities.

Mayor Phil Mauger says the Government is charging ahead without even acknowledging the glaring issues they have raised time and time again.

“We all agree there is a need for change in the way we deliver three waters but as a Council we’re not convinced this is the way to do it.

“I have written to the new Minister for Local Government to congratulate him, and invite him down to Christchurch. This is one thing we want to talk about, as it’s fundamental we sort it out together.”

Through the submission the Council has also raised concerns about the lack of public accountability in the governance structure for the four water services entities.

“Each of the four water services areas will have a regional representative group. In the past we’ve asked Government to strengthen local representation within these groups, but have seen no action to make this happen,” says Mayor Mauger.

The submission also points out a number of oversights in the Bill that could lead to the loss of public access to assets with mixed use, for example, recreational reserves that also play a role in stormwater management.

Public consultation on the Bills is open until the 12th February.