Council requests a pause to controversial housing density plans
The future of Christchurch’s housing intensification plan now sits with the new environment minister.
The Christchurch City Council decided on Wednesday to ask Environment Minister Penny Simmonds to pause the $4.2 million independent hearings process, which is considering housing density rules imposed by the former Government.
Due to existing laws the council can not make the decision itself.
The intensification plan being considered allows three residential buildings of three storeys each to be built, without a resource consent, across vast parts of the city. It also allows for higher limits in main suburban centres.
The plan, which has garnered strong opposition from residents’ groups, provides enough space for housing for the next 150 years.
But the new Government has said it would make the density standards optional for councils.
Read the full story from reporter Tina Law here (subscription required).
Poll: Should we be giving the green light to new mining projects? 💰🌲
The Environmental Protection Authority announced this week that a proposed mine in Central Otago (near Cromwell) is about to enter its fast-track assessment process. A final decision could come within six months, and if it’s approved, construction might start as early as mid-2026.
We want to know: Should mining projects like this move ahead?
Keen to dig deeper? Mike White has the scoop.
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53.1% Yes
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46.9% No
Out and about this week
Another productive week meeting some great people and keeping their gardens and lawns looking sharp. Scarifying, mowing, pruning, garden tidy ups. Get in touch if you need help.
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