Strategic Planning Documents for Councils

You have the expertise, the background material and the thinking. What you need is someone who can help you shape it into a clear, decision-ready document.

I work alongside council staff and advisers to research, analyse, structure and write strategic planning documents — from asset management plans through to advisory reports, policies and consultation documents.

Book a free call

Asset management plans

An AMP review is a major project. I handle the early research, analysis and drafting at the start, and the coordination, writing and editing at the end — so your team can focus on the technical work in between.

I’ve worked on parks, three waters, flood risk, transport and community partnerships AMPs across multiple councils.

More details about AMP reviews

Reports

This advice + writing service involves research, analysis and thinking, and delivers well-structured, clear reports to support decision-making.

I’ve worked on a number of long-form reports including: State of the Nelson-Tasman Youth Sector,  Community Facilities Engagement Report,  and a Construction & Demolition Waste Report, and three reports to support a LIM Improvement Programme.

Let's discuss your report

Strategies, policies, bylaws and action plans

I develop strategic policy documents on your behalf that are well thought out, clearly written and logically structured.

Recent work includes a Volunteer Strategy, Commercial Occupation Policy and an Urban Environments Bylaw. I am currently working on an action plan for strengthening the youth sector.

I can also help you with the engagement and consultation processes associated with these documents (see below).

Let's discuss your document

Community engagement plans

Good engagement starts with a clear plan. I’ve developed a community engagement plan methodology to support engagement on council proposals and draft documents that combines your strengths with innovative ways to engage meaningfully with diverse audiences.

My approach draws on the IAP2 spectrum of public participation and can be used for both informal stakeholder engagement and for special consultative procedures.

Recent work includes a stakeholder engagement plan for the youth sector, and bylaw consultation processes.

Let's plan your engagement process

Consultation documents

Getting your consultation document right matters, as it shapes the feedback you receive. I help you present the issues, options and other content in clear, plain language so your community can give you informed, useful submissions.

Recent experience includes development of a LTP consultation document and statements of proposals for bylaw reviews.

Let's discuss your consultation document

Summarising and reporting on submissions

I’ve summarised, analysed and written lots of deliberations reports as part of consultation processes. I am happy to help you by making sense of community feedback and drafting recommendations on your behalf.

Let's discuss your consultation process

Testimonial (LIM improvement reports)

“I want to acknowledge your superb analytical skills, ability to hone in on the issues and easy reporting style. A pleasure to read. The recommendations are spot on.”
Clare BartonGroup Manager Environmental Management, Nelson City Council

Testimonial (volunteer strategy)

“Debra was a delight to work with – a great communicator and was able to understand and incorporate ideas and information easily. I would not hesitate to recommend Debra’s services.”
Ellie YoungCommunity Coordinator, Volunteer Nelson

Testimonial (LTP consultation document)

“We have made really good progress and our elected members have been impressed with the simple, clear language you have brought to the document. Thank you!”
Amanda BradleyGeneral Manager Policy & Governance, South Wairarapa District Council

Testimonial (summarising and reporting on submissions)

“You are an absolute star and we really appreciate the order and efficiency you bring to our deliberations reports.”
Margaret ParfittBusiness Unit Manager, Transport and Solid Waste, Nelson City Council

Frequently asked questions

What types of strategic planning documents do you work on?

I work on asset management plans, reports, strategies, policies, bylaws, action plans community engagement plans and consultation documents. If you’re not sure whether your project is a good fit, get in touch and we can talk it through.

How does the process work?

It depends on the document, but I start by listening to you, to understand what you need to achieve. Then I develop a project plan for your review before getting underway with research and analysis, and structuring, drafting and editing your document.

We have as many meetings as needed to discuss our thinking and plan the next steps.

Do you only work with councils?

Most of my clients are council staff. However, I also work with local government-related community organisations and consultants.

What does it cost?

Fees are agreed upfront as a fixed price, so you know what the project will cost from the start. After our initial conversation, I’ll prepare a proposal with a clear scope, timeline and fee for you to consider.

Do you use AI?

I ask you if you are happy for me to use AI. If you are not, then I won’t use it. If you are, I’ll share my AI Policy to make sure we’re on the same page before I get started. At the end of the project I’ll also provide you with a report on my AI use.

Ready to make progress on your document?

Get in touch to arrange an initial, no-obligation conversation.

Email: debra.bradley@writingforcouncils.co.nz

Phone: 021 215 4698