Iconic sheds in jeopardy

SCOTT HAMMOND

Marlborough District Council is deciding whether these Waikawa Bay boatsheds should get their coastal permits renewed or if they should be pulled down to increase the recreational value of the area.

A row of 50-year-old boatsheds known for their quirky colour scheme could be pulled down after the Marlborough District Council learnt some were being used as makeshift baches.

Owners of the 22 run down Waikawa Bay boatsheds have been warned by the council that they can't be used as temporary accommodation if their coastal permits are renewed.

The old sheds, which require significant structural work, are famed among photographers and painters for their striking colour palette. The boatsheds are located to the north of the public launching ramp at Waikawa Bay.

Applicants told a resource consent hearing yesterday at the council that they wanted 15-year coastal permits and land use consents for the boatsheds, slipways and jetties.

If the consent is refused by the committee the boatsheds will be pulled down.

Applicants argued the sheds were necessary for storing, launching, retrieval, rigging and washing down small boats.

They agreed they would not be used for accommodation or business purposes.

It follows complaints by members of the public and a probe by the council's compliance department that one of the sheds was listed on Trade Me in 2009 for sale as a lifestyle block.

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Iconic sheds in jeopardy