Auckland Unitary Plan process – streamlined but not aerodynamic

The Government has agreed to a streamlined planning process to speed up the implementation of the Auckland Unitary Plan (Plan) but has rejected some of the more aerodynamic features sought by the Auckland Council.

The necessary changes to the Resource Management Act will be introduced before the end of the year. There will be an opportunity to make submissions on the Bill.

What the Council asked for

The package of changes sought by the Council included:

• removal of further (or cross) submissions
• removal of the right to appeal a decision on its merits
• establishment of a hearings panel made up of independent commissioners and councillors, and
• for the Plan as notified to have immediate legal effect.