7 Oct 2013

Dunedin stakeholders to meet with AgResearch

11:16 am on 7 October 2013

The mayor of Dunedin says community and business leaders are to meet with AgResearch to discuss the Crown Research Institute's plans to relocate jobs from its Invermay facility.

In July, AgResearch announced long-term plans to shift about 250 jobs, including some in Dunedin, to other areas.

Mayor Dave Cull says Thursday's meeting will be the first time business, council and community leaders will speak with the Crown agency.

AgResearch had made submission to the city council's draft economic development strategy in June 2012 saying it should highlight the importance of its Invermay facility to the area, and that actions should be taken to protect and encourage further growth at Invermay.

Mr Cull says he is not sure why AgResearch changed its mind about the facility, which he and the other regional stakeholders believe needs to be maintained.