Media release
5 December 2012

Fresh approach to protecting Auckland’s heritage

Auckland Council is considering a new approach to the preservation of our built heritage and character areas, which would provide greater protection than existing plans.

The new approach comes from the council’s Unitary Plan Political Working Party, which includes councillors, local board chairs and members of the Independent Maori Statutory Board.

It has suggested a new process will ensure Auckland’s built heritage is not inadvertently lost.

The process would apply to those parts of early Auckland not currently subject to character protection controls, and would see any proposal to demolish pre-1944 buildings in identified areas assessed against historic heritage and character criteria.

Deputy Mayor Penny Hulse chairs the working party: “Heritage protection is a complex balancing act between preserving the city’s character on the one hand, while not unduly burdening homeowners and developers with extra costs,” says Councillor Hulse.

“This proposed approach would be an interim measure until heritage assessments within these early neighbourhoods are completed.

“We have been listening to the concerns of our local boards and communities and we think this approach could provide a good balance between looking after our heritage while making sure we provide the additional housing needed for a growing Auckland.

“Quality new development also needs to be encouraged where appropriate. Steps like this one will ensure Auckland is on the way to becoming a higher-quality, and more compact city, with greater housing choice, and one that celebrates its built heritage.”

The Auckland Plan Committee will consider the proposal in February, with the full draft Unitary Plan out for public consultation in mid March next year.

See www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/unitaryplan for more details, and to register to have your say.

Ends.

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