New subdivisions proposed in Waimakariri district could add nearly 2000 more homes

Nicole Mathewson Reporter from Northern Outlook

From local democracy reporter David Hill:

Growth is continuing apace in the Waimakariri district, with two major subdivisions proposed.

A subdivision in northeast Rangiora, Bellgrove, has been fast-tracked for development, while a private plan change request for a 155.9-hectare development at Ohoka has been notified.

A consenting panel appointed by the Environmental Protection Agency has granted resource consents, subject to conditions, to Bellgrove Rangiora Ltd.

The Waimakariri District Council made an application to the Minister for the Environment in November last year to speed up the Bellgrove development, on the basis it would provide much needed housing and employment in the fast-growing district.

The application was made under the Covid-19 Recovery Fast-track Consenting Act, following public consultation and an agreement from the developer, Bellgrove Rangiora Ltd.

The proposed development is to the north of Kippenberger Ave and straddles the Cam River.

It is proposed to subdivide a 20.8ha site initially and construct 209 sections, a neighbourhood commercial centre, open spaces, restore ecological areas and develop infrastructure including roads, parking and three-waters services.

The full development is over 63ha and could total as many as 1100 sections to be developed over five stages.

Meanwhile, the Waimakariri District Council has notified a private plan change request from Rolleston Industrial Developments Ltd for a proposed 850-house, 155.9ha subdivision between Whites and Bradleys roads at Ohoka (pictured).

Mayor Dan Gordon said the proposed subdivision had not been ‘‘initiated’’ or ‘‘anticipated’’ by the council.

‘‘The council will be making its decision on whether to make a submission in the coming weeks and we will be appointing someone to offer independent advice.’’

District plan manager Matt Bacon said residents had 20 working days to make a submission.

Once staff have considered those submissions they will be notified, with a further 10 working days for feedback before hearings are held.

Greenfield areas were normally developed close to an existing town, where there was existing infrastructure, Bacon said.

The plan change process would consider the provision of services as part of a merits based assessment, he said.

‘‘Any new residential areas need to be fully serviced with water and waste water,” he said.

‘‘The general principal is the developer would pay for it and recover it through development contributions on the sections.’’

The proposed development also includes about 6000 square metres of commercial floor space and car parking, and there is provision for either a new school or a retirement village.