911 days ago

'Weaponising rates': Debate over plans to spur on vacant Christchurch landowner

The Team Reporter from The Press

From reporter Steven Walton:

Is it an illegal policy, or the perfect deterrent to land-bankers?

That was the clash of perspectives in the Christchurch City Council chamber on Wednesday, as developers and residents presented to councillors about its controversial proposal to significantly hike the rates of vacant central city land.

Prominent developers, including Richard Peebles, Philip Carter, Dean Marshall, and Ernest Duval, told city councillors on Wednesday they were going after the vacant land problem the wrong way. Carter claimed the proposal was illegal.

But, a central city neighbourhood association says the plan will stop land-bankers.

What is the proposal?
- From mid-2022, the council wants to more than double the differential on the “general” component of the rates bill for central city vacant landowners.
- If a site has consented use happening on it, for example a consented temporary car park, it would not be pinged.
- Only sites in the Central City Business Zone or the Central City Mixed Use (South Frame) Zone are part of the proposed hike.
- Sites that are “improved and maintained” in line with the council’s vacant sites improvement guide could apply for a rates remission. - Whether a site is complying will be decided by the council.

Read more here.

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More messages from your neighbours
22 hours ago

Poll: Is it rude to talk on the phone on a bus?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Buses can be a relaxing way to get home if you have a seat and enough space. However, it can be off-putting when someone is taking a phone call next to you.

Do you think it's inconsiderate for people to have lengthy phone calls on a bus? Vote in the poll, and add your comments below.

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Is it rude to talk on the phone on a bus?
  • 65.5% Yes
    65.5% Complete
  • 32% No
    32% Complete
  • 2.5% Other - I'll share below
    2.5% Complete
995 votes
3 hours ago

Floor show

The Team from Resene ColorShop Shirley

Spruce up your outdoor area for spring soirées in the sun with a simple but stylish rug you can personalise with your own design using your favourite Resene colours.

Find out how to create your own with these easy step by step instructions.

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9 hours ago

Unlock the Answer: Today’s Riddle is Trickier Than You Think!

Riddler from The Neighbourly Riddler

What English word retains the same pronunciation, even after you take away four of its five letters?

Do you think you know the answer to our daily riddle? Don't spoil it for your neighbours! Simply 'Like' this post and we'll post the answer in the comments below at 2pm.

Want to stop seeing riddles in your newsfeed?
Head here and hover on the Following button on the top right of the page (and it will show Unfollow) and then click it. If it is giving you the option to Follow, then you've successfully unfollowed the Riddles page.

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