The Manawatū River Leaders’ Forum has successfully secured $2.92 million from central government under the Freshwater Improvement Fund. This will contribute to works totalling $7.24 million over five years.
Horizons Regional Council along with Palmerston North City Council, Manawatū, Tararua and Horowhenua District Councils, iwi, and landowners submitted an application for the Freshwater Improvement Fund on behalf of the River Accord in April this year.
Manawatū River Leaders’ Forum Chairman Richard Thompson says the application was successful in over half of its components, with many River Accord actions along the Manawatū River now able to proceed in a shorter timeframe.
“We are delighted to have secured this funding from the Ministry for the Environment, which equates to 40 per cent of the $7.24 million being put towards initiatives to improve the health of the awa. Horizons will be the lead agency and will contribute $1.96 million, while Palmerston North City, Horowhenua and Manawatū District Councils will contribute a combined $1.08 million. The remaining $1.27 million will come from landowners,” says Mr Thompson.
“In addition to these financial contributions, Accord partners will continue to put in significant in-kind support.
