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An appeal against Auckland Council’s decision to reject a private plan change request to rezone 22 hectares at Paddison Farm north of Warkworth will be heard in the Environment Court on August 18.
Retirement village operator Arvida lodged its appeal in March, after councillors said its plans were premature, speculative and sprawling, and there was no funding for associated infrastructure.
Mayor Wayne Brown said at the time the scale of the rezoning, which could provide capacity for around 200 retirement units and 2200 other new homes, was “ridiculous”.
However, Arvida maintains council’s rejection was a “flawed decision”, saying its proposal would allow a more coordinated, master-planned approach to the land.
Chief executive Jeremy Nicoll said the court hearing, which is set down for two days, would determine whether council’s decision was correct, since discussions in the meantime had failed to resolve the matter.
“While the process has been frustrating, it must be stepped through,” he said.
“Should the court find the decision was not correct, our plan change would proceed to be notified and go through the public submission, evidence and hearing process.”
He said the plan change area adjoined Warkworth’s existing urban area, was well connected to the town and its amenities, and would integrate with existing and planned infrastructure.
“This appeal is necessary because due process must be followed when it comes to making important decisions about New Zealand’s urgent housing needs,” he said.
