The Council's Public Open Space Strategy is now open for public consultation.

Jenny Ridgen, Programme Manager- Healthy Environment says: "The quality of Christchurch's open space is one of the things that makes this a great place to live. We want your feedback on the draft strategy which will provide direction for open space for the next 30 years and beyond."

"Open Space, our parks and recreation spaces, are vital to Christchurch's communities. They are not only valuable resources for recreation, ecology and wildlife, they are also culturally important to many people. Whether it is a walk in a favourite park, a run or bike ride on the Port Hills, or even getting access to remote beaches, most people in Christchurch appreciate the special environment of Christchurch's open space".

"Public open space is defined as any area that includes public parks and planted areas, waterways and streets that can be used for recreation or public health benefit or to help protect the natural landscape. This can include green space (parks), blue space (waterways and coast) and grey space (streets, street malls or squares)".

"To fully benefit the city both now and in the future we are seeking to develop a world-class city, that will make the very best use of Christchurch's precious open space".

"This Strategy will help provide, develop and maintain a publicly accessible network of open space in Christchurch and Banks Peninsula. This will enhance and protect the health, recreation and liveability for residents and visitors in Christchurch."

"The public's feedback is important to help guide the Council's decision-making relating to open space management", Ms Ridgen says.

To see how the Council plans to manage the provision of public open space in the next 30 years, you can look at the strategy online at www.ccc.govt.nz/haveyoursay, or at libraries and service centres or by calling 941 8999, or come along to information sessions where staff will be available to answer questions:

Monday 23 November from 12 pm to 2 pm at the Christchurch Art Gallery on Worcester Boulevard Monday 23 November from 5 pm to 7 pm at the Lyttelton Recreation Centre, 25 Winchester Street, Lyttelton Wednesday 25 November from 3 pm to 5 pm at the Gaiety Hall Supper Room, Rue Jolie, Akaroa Thursday 26 November from 5 pm to 7 pm at Our City O Tautahi, Corner Worcester Boulevard and Oxford Terrace in Christchurch City Centre.

Consultation starts on 16 November and finishes on 22 January, and submission forms are available from www.ccc.govt.nz/haveyoursay.