Urban design panel review draws bright future

Auckland City’s independent Urban Design Panel has been declared a major success following a review of its first six months in operation.

The council’s City Development committee received the review last week and endorsed the panel for another six months as well as expanding its functioning role.

“We wanted to lift the game as far as what the council was looking for in urban design and developments. The panel has been very successful in providing an opportunity for architects, developers and their teams to gain independent expert advice on urban design best practice,” says Councillor Juliet Yates, chairperson, City Development Committee.

The Urban Design Panel was set up to assess and provide free pre-application and application advice in the central area of the city. Its role will now been expanded to review applications with design criteria across the entire Auckland city isthmus.

“All multi-units developments in mixed use and residential 8 zones across the city will now be reviewed by the design panel,” said Mrs Yates.

The panel consists of seven independent urban design and development experts from the very best educational and professional backgrounds.

“This is another milestone in Auckland City’s urban design strategy, helping to create a high quality distinctively Auckland urban environment in which to work and live.

“The results of the panel will become apparent as buildings reviewed by members are constructed,” said Mrs Yates.

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