10 Sep 2009

50-year growth strategy launched in Waikato

8:08 am on 10 September 2009

Councils in the Waikato region have been working with tangata whenua on how growth should be managed over the next 50 years.

The Future Proof strategy was launched in Hamilton by the Prime Minister and King Tuheitia.

Project manager Bill Wasley says the region's population is expected to double to 440,000 by the year 2060.

Mr Wasley told Waatea News the strategy includes increasing housing density in existing residential areas to prevent urban sprawl and protect farm land.

He said Tainui have been clear on what their priorities are - such as the protection of natural and physical resources.