In a challenging and complex world, everyone needs a sanctuary—a place where they can relax, reflect, and connect with loved ones, far from the bureaucratic burdens that exist beyond their doors.
When that sense of security is threatened, the impact is profound. It feels unjust that bureaucratic forces can legally strip away that sanctuary.
Compulsory purchase is arguably a homeowner’s worst nightmare.
This troubling scenario has edged closer for some Dunedin residents. The latest developments in the South Dunedin Future programme, a joint initiative by the Dunedin City Council and the Otago Regional Council, were unveiled this week.
The programme was launched in response to the devastating floods of June 2015, aiming to create a masterplan to address flooding by 2100, with a projected cost running into billions of dollars.
In March of last year, the programme presented seven potential adaptation futures for the area, home to 14,000 people and over 1000 businesses. After receiving community feedback, these options have now been narrowed to three.
Few would argue that South Dunedin’s current state can continue unchanged. The growing effects of climate change, such as rising sea levels and more severe rainstorms, will increasingly impact the low-lying suburbs. Additionally, some Caversham residents face separate challenges, like raw sewage flooding streets during heavy rains due to insufficient wastewater systems.
With potential flooding risks, it would be unjust to leave residents in constant fear whenever easterly winds hit the Otago coast. Councils also cannot overlook the potential refusal of insurance companies to cover thousands of homes due to high flooding risks.
The options detailed by programme manager Jonathan Rowe include: ‘‘protect’’ with a cost estimate of $2.098 billion and 1190 buildings demolished; ‘‘restore’’ at $1.629 billion with 1162 demolitions; and ‘‘reshape,’’ the most transformative option, costing $2.448 billion with 1738 demolitions and 44.5 hectares of land elevated.
Councillors from both councils will discuss these options next week, followed by extensive public consultations from July 1 to August 9.
The adaptation masterplan will be presented to the DCC and ORC for consideration in the middle of next year.
Since the latest proposals were shared, some South Dunedin residents have expressed outrage, feeling caught off guard by the potential for property acquisitions. Dunedin city councillor Jo Galer noted that residents learned of potential impacts on their homes through maps and media rather than directly from the council.
Residents are right to expect transparency, and if detailed information is released, the council should communicate this directly to the affected communities first.
However, this isn’t the first time potential property acquisitions have been discussed. Depending on the chosen option, between 1100 and 1700 of South Dunedin’s 6500 properties may be affected.
Reducing the options to three is understandably unsettling. The uncertainty is nerve-wracking for those most likely to be impacted, which is why the councils must handle the process with care and ensure they engage the community throughout.
Effective consultation will commence in July, and achieving broad agreement will be crucial for the plan’s success.
Keeping open lines of communication with those affected should always be a top priority.
As W B Yeats wisely advised in He Wishes for the Cloths of Heaven: ‘‘Tread softly because you tread on my dreams.’’
