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A decision on resource consent for a large subdivision in West Hoe Heights, north Ōrewa, could be imminent.
The developer, Shildon Ltd, planned to develop its 24.3ha site into around 467 residential lots, drawing strong opposition from the community and local councillors Wayne Walker and John Watson. There was a petition with 300 signatures and a public meeting.
To seek resource consent, the project, called Strathmill, was lodged under the Covid-19 Recovery (Fast-track consenting) process earlier this year.
On August 8, draft conditions for resource consent were issued, with comments sought from the applicant, and those who have been given input into the process. Changes to the original plans include the creation of a neighbourhood park and increasing the size of some of the lots.
Feedback from submitters show that staunch opposition to the development remains, with concerns around the effects of this level of density on the region’s infrastructure, including on traffic, local schools and other facilities, the environment and stormwater provision, as well as the visual impact on the area.
The proposed density is in line with the government’s Medium Density Residential Standards, however Auckland Council’s changes to its Unitary Plan (Plan Change 78) to incorporate those standards into existing zones are on hold until March 2025, while Council reassesses them in light of flooding events. The National Party has stated it would scrap the standards if elected to government. Opponents say the delay of Plan Change 78 should be a factor when considering the resource consent application for the Strathmill development, because of the density proposed and the steep nature of the site.
Backstories February 20 and April 17, 2023
