20 September 2005

REM Developments Limited v Rodney District Council

A recent Environment Court decision granting consent to REM Development's proposal to construct 17 visitor accommodation units at Matakana has been welcomed by the Rodney District Council

The council initially declined the application, but after securing significant amendments to the application, then went to the Environment Court suggesting that consent should be granted.

After considering carefully the submissions of local residents opposed to the development, the court concluded that the proposed development was an efficient use of land and avoided or minimised adverse environmental effects. The court commented that opposition centered on a resistance to change, rather than actual environmental effects.

There would also be a number of positive effects of the development including increased local employment opportunities, provision of public access to the coastline and the possibility of a future esplanade reserve.

Andrew Braggins, council's Issues Resolution Manager said "The court has again supported council's decision to focus on environmental effects and council's preparedness to reconsider its decision following changes to the application. It shows we were right to refuse consent originally and to modify our position following the applicant's changes."

The court has requested the parties to consult further in relation to appropriate conditions of consent to address resident concerns, such as noise standards, replanting of coastal areas and restrictions on use of power boats.

ENDS

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