MP rallies community to help save lagoon3 min read
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Local MP, Greg Fleming, has heard the pleas of the community about the urgent need for the Onehunga Lagoon to be dredged, and he is now pleading to the community to help him succeed.
After hearing the concerns of residents, Greg visited the lagoon earlier this year and witnessed firsthand the thick, muddy sludge that has accumulated over decades, and following a crucial meeting with the mayor in June, he has made it his top priority to restore the lagoon to its former glory.
The Onehunga Lagoon, created in the 1980s as part of the State Highway 20 development, is facing a dire crisis – for over 40 years, the lagoon has not been dredged, leading to a dangerous buildup of sediment, that has not only reduced its capacity to manage stormwater, but also degraded its quality as a recreational space.
“This needs to be addressed urgently,” says Greg. “There are lots of water lovers who use the lagoon for recreational purposes, so it is vital that we get it dredged. Dredging will improve the water quality, prevent further degradation, and ensure that this site remains a beloved part of our community.”
During a meeting with Mayor Wayne Brown in June, Greg highlighted the urgent need for the lagoon to be dredged, and “Wayne seemed interested and encouraged me to push further, which I’m doing.”
Determined to make this project a reality, he launched a petition and is urging every resident to sign it. This petition will be presented to the Auckland Council once Greg’s received thousands of signatures, as it will indicate how crucial this project is to the people of Onehunga.
“I can’t do this without the community’s help. I’ve heard their plea, and now I’m pleading to them to join me in this fight.”
So far, Greg has gathered 359 signatures, but he is aiming for thousands to ensure the council understands the importance of this project. He firmly believes that with strong community backing, the council will prioritise the dredging of the lagoon, preserving it for generations to come.
“We are calling on everyone who loves this lagoon to join us in making our voices heard. Right now, the lagoon is unsafe – people can’t use the water without risking injury from debris lodged in the mud. I’ve also heard of dogs getting their paws slashed by sharp objects beneath the surface.”
An earlier article in the Onehunga Community News highlighted the challenges faced by local water enthusiasts due to the lagoon’s current state, but the council was adamant there are no funds to dredge the lagoon.
Despite these challenges, Greg believes that the community’s involvement could be the key to pushing this project forward. By signing the petition, residents of Onehunga and surrounding areas can help ensure that the lagoon remains a thriving part of the community.
To support the dredging of Onehunga Lagoon and safeguard its legacy, sign the petition in the September e-mag today.
Your voice could be the deciding factor in preserving this cherished local landmark for the future.
