Council requests a pause to controversial housing density plans
The future of Christchurch’s housing intensification plan now sits with the new environment minister.
The Christchurch City Council decided on Wednesday to ask Environment Minister Penny Simmonds to pause the $4.2 million independent hearings process, which is considering housing density rules imposed by the former Government.
Due to existing laws the council can not make the decision itself.
The intensification plan being considered allows three residential buildings of three storeys each to be built, without a resource consent, across vast parts of the city. It also allows for higher limits in main suburban centres.
The plan, which has garnered strong opposition from residents’ groups, provides enough space for housing for the next 150 years.
But the new Government has said it would make the density standards optional for councils.
Read the full story from reporter Tina Law here (subscription required).
Poll: Should the government levy industries that contribute to financial hardship?
As reported in the Post, there’s a $30 million funding gap in financial mentoring. This has led to services closing and mentors stepping in unpaid just to keep helping people in need 🪙💰🪙
One proposed solution? Small levies on industries that profit from financial hardship — like banks, casinos, and similar companies.
So we want to hear what you think:
Should the government ask these industries to contribute?
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59.6% Yes, supporting people is important!
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26% No, individuals should take responsibility
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14.4% ... It is complicated
A Neighbourly Riddle! Don’t Overthink It… Or Do?😜
Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post if you know the answer and the big reveal will be posted in the comments at 2pm on the day!
If you multiply this number by any other number, the answer will always be the same. What number is this?
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