1 May 2001

Further steps are being taken to streamline and improve the processing of consents and other planning requirements by Manukau City Council.

City Manager Colin Dale says earlier changes have already made a big difference in simplifying building and resource consent processes and keeping costs as low as possible, but improvement must be constant.

“We’ve met 100% of our targets for building consent processing for the last month, and that’s happened now each month for the past 17 months.

“The handling time of resource consents has been improving, and in the year to date 95% of non-notified applications were assessed on time. Cutting the time it takes to process these consents makes life easier for the average person wanting to build or planning changes on their property, as well as for business customers.

“Some time ago we changed our focus from simply processing applications, to pro-actively looking for ways to fast track the process and make things easier. I am pleased that approach has started to pay off.”

An action plan for the future has been drawn up and it includes further streamlining, reviews of procedures and charges, constantly updating computer technology, and improving work practices and customer relationships, Mr Dale said.

“For businesses, our improvements will help get projects underway faster, and generally help make it easier for them to do business here. For newly-arrived companies starting up, getting necessary planning approvals as quickly as possible provides a welcoming environment.

“Sometimes a source of frustration for businesses is unexpectedly learning of legal obligations they must meet, such as provisions of the Resource Management Act. This can cause delays but they are unavoidable.

“One of our goals in promoting growth of the City is to be the most supportive and business-friendly council in New Zealand. So we are always seeking feedback on our processes and welcome suggestions on how we can improve further,” Mr Dale said.

ENDS

Media Contact
Gabrielle Hinton
Media Liaison
Corporate Communications Unit
Manukau City Council
Phone: (09) 2628900 x 8650
Fax: (09) 2625759
Email: ghinton@manukau.govt.nz

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