Housing intensification proposal challenged by submitters
A Christchurch engineering lecturer says the city council’s proposed changes to the district plan includes a “manufactured” reason to stop developers from building higher density housing.
Tom Logan, a senior lecturer in civil systems engineering at the University of Canterbury, is one of about 1000 people and organisations who have told the city council their views on Plan Change 14 (PC14), which aims to increase housing availability and affordability by cutting red tape.
A final round of submissions closed on Monday, with an independent hearings panel set to begin in October.
The plan change was triggered by new medium density rules set by central government in 2021, which called on large cities like Christchurch to allow up to three homes of three storeys each on most sections across the city.
Read the full story by reporter Sinead Gill here (subscription required).
Poll: Do you think banning gang patches is reasonable?
With the government cracking down on gangs, it is now illegal for gang members to display their insignia in public places whether through clothing or their property.
This means arrests can be made if these patches are worn in places like restaurants, shops, on public transport or ferries, and on airplanes. Arrests were made recently at a funeral.
Do you think this ban is reasonable?
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76.2% Yes
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22.4% No
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1.4% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.
Poll: Should all neighbours have to contribute to improvements?
An Auckland court has ruled a woman doesn’t have to contribute towards the cost of fixing a driveway she shares with 10 neighbours.
When thinking about fences, driveways or tree felling, for example, do you think all neighbours should have to pay if the improvements directly benefit them?
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81.9% Yes
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15.4% No
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2.7% Other - I'll share below