When we learned that zoning changes meant the Izone industrial development (owned by Selwyn District Council) had become New Zealand’s largest fully zoned industrial park, Convergence recommended the Izone board adopt a best practice approach to community relations which would ensure ratepayers are fully informed about the reasons behind Council’s investment in creating the industrial park. Our strategy was approved and Convergence produces regular newsletters printed in community newspapers containing articles about businesses relocating to Selwyn, liaises with local media about Izone ‘news’ and has facilitated resident surveys. An open day is planned as are links with schools and community groups. Our recommendation in mid 2010 that Izone establish a business association for its landowners and tenants was also accepted and Convergence helps convene quarterly meetings, manages the agenda and minutes, and acts as a conduit between businesses, Council and the developer R D Hughes Developments.
