Auckland: Backtracking on Targets Not Viable Option

MEDIA RELEASE

27 August 2013

Backtracking on Targets Not Viable Option

Auckland Council must not backtrack on its density provisions in its Unitary Plan meetings if it wants to achieve its vision of creating a sustainable and liveable city, warns Property Council New Zealand.

In a letter sent to councillors today, Property Council’s chief executive Connal Townsend asks them to carefully consider what kind of future they promised current and future Aucklanders through the Auckland Plan, and whether this will be fulfilled by the Unitary Plan.

Townsend reiterated that Auckland Council must continue with the current density targets in the draft Unitary Plan and allow for their inclusion in the notified version of the plan.

“It is vital for Auckland to grow in order to retain its economic vibrancy, innovation, skilled workers and entrepreneurs. There must be the opportunity available for Auckland’s future population to purchase their own house and call it their own. Density will help to achieve this.

“The Unitary Plan must allow for permissible policies around land supply and development. Permissible policies will stimulate economic growth, house a population that will grow significantly over the next 30 years and maintain, if not broaden, the rating base for Auckland Council.

“You as a public official have the opportunity to act with courage, not only for the residents of today, but for the residents of tomorrow.

“It is time to move beyond the historical shortfalls that has plagued Auckland previously. It is vital to put politics aside and do what is best for Auckland.

“Like other successful international cities, Auckland must adapt and change. The current density targets in the draft Unitary Plan will go a long way to achieving this.”

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