‘No surprises’ consents model to achieve win-win outcome

The Auckland Regional Council (ARC) will soon ‘test’ a new consents processing model designed to increase efficiency and reduce delay around major roading projects.

The model aims to take a holistic view and is focused on three projects - the Harbour Bridge to City, State Highway 20 (Avondale) and the Eastern Corridor projects.

Strategic Policy Committee Chair Ian Bradley says the model builds on the innovative best-practice process undertaken on the North Shore Busway project.

“No surprises means a more proactive approach and better information sharing up front. We will be involved with the applicants as early as possible in the consents process. This will increase the chances of achieving a win-win transport-environmental outcome for the region.

Correspondingly, we will recognise problems and potentially affected parties early. This will reduce the chances of applications that are incomplete or that will be rejected,” Cr. Bradley said.

All partners of the major roading projects, ARC, Transit NZ, Auckland City Council and Manukau City Council, have worked together to provide direction to the model.

The ARC believes the new model will ensure that the processing of resource consents and notices of requirement for the three projects will be as efficient as possible, while maintaining transparency and fairness to all parties. However, Cr. Bradley emphasises that while the consenting process forms a significant portion of progress on roading projects, there are other vital factors.

“RMA consenting processes are only part of a broader set of influences to decision making, but within our realm, we have remodelled our practice to create greater efficiency, contributing to transport solutions the region needs.” Cr. Bradley said.

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