Hefty rates rise?

Councillor Janet Clews says it is too early to put an exact figure on the rates rise.

But the council's long term community plan 2003-2013 indicates the figure could be hefty.

"Because of the growth of new facilities and infrastructure, there are relatively large increases in the rate requirement predicted from 2004-05 to 2006-07," it says.

The report cites a number of projects including the new Henderson Civic Centre, new public transport facilities, an outdoor events centre at Central Park Drive, and new libraries in Henderson, New Lynn and Glen Eden.

Mrs Clews says the council will also face extra costs this year associated with upgrading Auckland's public transport network.

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