What are Annual and Long-term Plans?
Council uses two key planning documents to guide decision-making and investment across the district, a Long-term Plan and Annual Plans. Performance Reports and an audited Annual Report provide you with progress on:
key projects and initiatives
performance against our measures
financial management
movement towards our strategic outcomes.
keeping rates affordable.
Long-term Plans
Our Long-term Plan (LTP) sets Council's direction for the next 10 years. It outlines:
the services and activities we'll provide
major projects and infrastructure investment
community outcomes and priorities
how services and projects will be funded
the financial impact on rates, fees and charges.
Long-term Plans are reviewed every three years and are informed by community consultation.
The Long-term Plan also includes our specific plans and budget for Year One, so we don't produce an Annual Plan for the first year. Annual Plans are produced in year two and three of the Long-term Plan then the cycle starts again.
Annual Plans
Our Annual Plans sets Council's budget and priorities for year two and three of the Long-term Plan.
Annual Plans may propose changes to what was forecast in the Long-term Plan to reflect new priorities, costs, opportunities or challenges. Depending on the significance of proposed changes, Council may consult with the community before adopting the plan.
Annual reports
Annual Reports are independently audited on behalf of the Controller and Auditor-General and provide a comprehensive review of Council's performance, achievements and finances for each financial year.
Performance reports
Performance Reports provide updates on Council's progress against the activities, services and outcomes set out in our planning documents.
How the planning cycle works
Every three years, Council prepares a Long-term Plan that sets out the services, projects and investment planned for the next decade.
The first year of the Long-term Plan includes Council's detailed budget and work programme, so an Annual Plan is not required for that year.
Annual Plans are then prepared for years two and three. They update the budget and any changes to planned activities, services or projects for the coming financial year.
When significant changes are proposed, Council may consult with the community as part of the Annual Plan process. If there are no significant changes from what was set out in the Long-term Plan, formal consultation may not be required. The decision as to whether we consult is also guided the Local Government Act and Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy.
After three years, a new Long-term Plan is developed and the cycle begins again.
Current planning documents and reports
How does the District Plan fit in?
The District Plan is separate from the Annual Plan and Long-term Plan, although people often confuse them.
The Long-term Plan and Annual Plans set out Council's services, projects, budgets and priorities. The District Plan focuses on how land can be used and developed across the district and the environmental outcomes we want to achieve.
The District Plan includes rules and policies for activities such as housing, subdivision, business development and protection of the natural environment. It is reviewed periodically in accordance with legislative requirements.