Hamilton City Council Commences District Plan Change Work

Hamilton City Council has initiated work on a District Plan change, following the provision of new information that underscores areas around gullies, streams, and riverbanks requiring more detailed consideration due to slope instability and erosion.

The decision was made by the City Prosperity Committee after they approved progressing work on the proposed District Plan change. Deputy Mayor Geoff Taylor emphasized the importance of using the best available information in making decisions about Hamilton’s growth and development.

Dr Juliana Reu Junqueira, Director of the Urban and Spatial Planning Unit at Council, clarified that this process does not introduce any new District Plan rules but rather aims to refine existing understanding based on fresh data. The next steps include technical, planning, legal, and engagement work, with a proposed plan change expected to go before the Ordinary Council meeting on September 17th.

The work is part of an ongoing Integrated Catchment Management Plan initiative at Hamilton City Council. While the new information extends beyond existing slope assessment areas in some locations, it does not automatically necessitate changes to land-use rules or regulations.