24 August 2001

Auckland University redevelopment will not be publicly notified

Auckland University’s proposed redevelopment on the corner of Alfred and Symonds Streets will go ahead without the need for public notification.

A previous application for the work has been put on hold and the University will instead use the site’s designation for university purposes to carry out the redevelopment.

Using an outline plan under Section 176 of the Resource Management Act, it has submitted a proposal for the construction of a student amenities and information commons building on the corner site.

Planning Fixtures Sub-Committee chairperson Councillor Juliet Yates says the Section 176 process means the council cannot require public notification, impose conditions or relate the proposed number of people using the new buildings to effects on traffic flows, noise, or the ability of the street system to cope.

The proposed four-storey building comprises two distinct parts, each part functionally different and reflected in the building’s design. A student amenities component provides for a rationalisation and extension of student facilities, while an information commons caters for electronic learning and information by providing access to the full networked resources of the library and University.

“The site is huge by inner city standards which means that some of the effects of the buildings can be absorbed within the site, such as overheight service towers,” Councillor Yates said.

“The proposal also requires the removal of houses scheduled by the Historic Places Trust, which has approved their removal in a decision that cannot be influenced by the sub-committee.”

Councillor Yates said traffic was a serious issue and the University had agreed to continue consultation with the council over traffic issues and to prepare traffic and construction management plans in the same format as required for any large development.

“Transit’s proposals for motorway extensions in the Grafton Gully will have flow-on effects, particularly during the construction period,” she said. “Alfred Street is an important link for traffic from the central city to Grafton Road and the council has consistently opposed its closure, despite the University’s stated intention to pedestrianise it. It would be better for buses to drop off students on site.”

ENDS

For more information, please contact:

- Councillor Juliet Yates, tel: 528 0581 or 025 327 437.

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