​Ashburton District residents are being asked to have their say on a range of proposed upgrades and developments for the Ashburton Domain over the next 30 years, with consultation now open until Sunday 5 April.​

The Ashburton District Council adopted the draft Ashburton Domain Development Plan at its meeting yesterday (27 February), which is intended to future-proof the Domain for the next three decades.

Ashburton District Mayor, Neil Brown says the Domain is a central feature of the district and is urging residents to share their thoughts on how it should develop and be enhanced in the years ahead.

"The changes we are proposing address almost every facet of the Domain, from sports clubs and facilities; the playground and paddling pool; gardens, picnic areas and waterways; right through to access points into the Domain and its connectivity to Ashburton's civic and town centre.

"With so many different people and groups using the Domain, we need to ensure we're making the right decisions for its future that will support our community's needs.

"Help us make those decisions by submitting your feedback before consultation closes in April."

More than 20 proposals are outlined in the draft document. These include creating a central hub that could feature a café and outdoor dining area; relocating the children's paddling pool closer to the playground and upgrading the play equipment; improving connectivity to Ashburton town with better access across State Highway 1; building a new entranceway from Walnut Avenue; and developing a series of heritage and botanical trails.

Full details of the proposals are outlined in the Ashburton Domain Development Plan consultation document, which is available to view on the Council website ashburtondc.govt.nz/haveyoursay.

Residents can provide their feedback using the submission form on the back of the consultation document or through the online form on the website.

An Open Day where residents can speak to staff about the proposals is set to happen on Saturday 7 March from 11am to 4pm next to the playground in the Ashburton Domain.​

Feedback is welcoming until 5pm, Sunday 5 April.​