File image Photo: Supplied
A majority of surveyed greater Christchurch residents say they are open to more public transport and higher density housing.
More than 7000 people from the Waimakariri, Selwyn and Christchurch City districts took part in the Urban Growth Partnership for Greater Christchurch - Whakawhanake Kāinga Komiti's survey last month.
Of those surveyed, 86 percent agreed population growth should be centred around key centres and public transport routes.
Fifty-three percent also supported a proposed mass rapid transit system (purpose-built bus or train line) from Belfast to Hornby.
Some who disagreed wanted to see the system expanded to other areas including Rolleston, Rangiora and eastern and southern Christchurch.
In both cases, the younger participants were, the more likely they were to support the proposal.
More than half of respondents were also open to higher density housing - but only if it was well-designed and provided people with a good quality of life.
Partnership chair Jim Palmer said he was delighted with the response from the community and the wide representation of participants.
"As part of our engagement we have been keen to hear the views of young people as well as reaching the under-represented groups in our community. Over 1300 youth under 25 took part in the survey and workshops," he said.
By 2050 more than 700,000 people were projected to be living in the Christchurch, Selwyn and Waimakariri districts - 30 percent more than today's figures.
Greater Christchurch urban growth partnership - Whakawhanake Kāinga Komiti was established last year and includes four councils, mana whenua, government ministers and Crown agencies.
In May, it will receive the full engagement report and consider releasing the Draft Spatial Plan for further consultation.
