Walkway sale backed

The last step has been taken to authorise the sale of the former controversial walkway at Poike linking Harrisfield Dr with Sapphire Dr.

The Tauranga City Council yesterday agreed to ask the Minister of Conservation to revoke the reserve status of the 450sqm of land that comprised the steep walkway which used to serve as a crime corridor up to the neighbourhood of Sapphire Dr.

Adjacent landowners have agreed to buy the walkway and reimburse the council for its costs.

Council property manager Anthony Averill said there had been a lot of interest from adjoining landowners.

The only opposing voice was Councillor Terry Molloy, who said he had difficulty understanding how mischief makers had dictated to the council.