LGNZ remains concerned about key elements of the Planning
and Natural Environment Bills but welcomes some of the
proposed changes.
The Environment Committee reported
back this week on both current bills before the House, which
will now proceed to second reading.
LGNZ President
Rehette Stoltz welcomes a number of improvements made to the
bills. “The Government has made some very practical
changes we’ve advocated for, including extending
implementation timeframes, clarifying permitted activity
registration requirements, and changes relating to how
effects of external building layouts are
considered.
“These improvements make the system more
practical to implement and reduces administrative
burden.
“However, we continue to have serious
concerns that the regulatory relief regime remains
unchanged.
“This could have a chilling effect on
council decision making, and it’s yet another unknown and
unfunded cost on ratepayers.”
Stoltz said the
decision to weaken tools that support councils and iwi
Māori collaboration, including provisions relating to Mana
Whakahono ā Rohe agreements and joint management agreements
are also concerning.
“Councils have consistently
viewed these mechanisms as practical tools that provide
certainty and support long-term
relationships.
“These agreements outline how
councils and iwi authorities will work together; there are
no new powers or transfers of powers enabled through
them.
“They set out how existing mechanisms for
participation and engagement will be best utilised and help
stop what can often be ad hoc and unclear practices being
the default.”
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Stoltz also questioned the potential
durability of the reformed system both bills were intended
to create.
“The proposed expansion of ministerial
powers fundamentally undermines the certainty and durability
that the reforms are intended to deliver.
“Frequent
ministerial intervention in planning outcomes risks
perpetuating one of the key weaknesses of the current RMA
system, which is a lack of long-term stability and
predictability.
“Combined with greater
centralisation of decision-making, this may reduce the
ability of local communities and councils to shape outcomes
for the places where they live.”
Ultimately councils
needed confidence that the new system would be durable,
affordable and workable, said Stoltz.
“Long-term
certainty is essential if the reforms are to
succeed.”
“We look forward to continuing to work
constructively with the Government and all parties to make
sure the final legislation delivers an effective planning
system for New Zealand to prosper.”
About
LGNZ:
LGNZ influences, connects and supports
local government. We represent the national interest of
councils across New Zealand to deliver more of what matters
in their communities. LGNZ is involved in policy, reforms,
programmes, and advocacy as well as providing advice,
consultancy and training to councils and their
staff.
