Hastings first purpose built, non-fluoridated drinking fountain/bottle filling station is proving a hit with the locals.

The facility was installed at the Eastbourne St bore on the intersection of Warren and Eastbourne Streets, last year.

A referendum in October 2013 resulted in 63 per cent of those who took part, voting to keep fluoride in the Hastings District’s urban water supply, including Havelock North and Flaxmere.

However, a group of residents remained committed to the establishment of a non-fluoridated water supply in Hastings, and at a Council meeting in May 2014, it was agreed that an outlet should be made available in the city.

Work will now commence in March this year on establishing a non-fluoridated supply from the bore field at Frimley Park on Lyndhurst Road and obtaining “Secure” status from the DHB to meet the requirements of the NZ Drinking Water Standards.

Non-fluoridated water proponents had requested a facility be established in Havelock North. Council staff had determined that there was no opportunity to establish a fountain at the Brookvale Rd bore due to the rural location and unsafe vehicle parking.

A budget of $30,000 for the two sites (Eastbourne Street and Lyndhurst Road) was included in the 2014/15 Annual Plan.

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