Reserves proposal hearings conclude
The hearing of submissions on Rotorua Lakes Council’s proposal to sell 10 reserve sites and make these available for housing has concluded today.
The Strategy, Policy & Finance Committee heard the submissions of 100 submitters during the course of the hearings, which were held over two full days and two half days. Some of those who spoke to their own submissions also spoke on behalf of others who had asked to be heard but were unable to attend.
One hundred and sixty submitters had indicated they wished to be heard.
What happens now?
Council staff will now work on a summary of written and oral submissions, including themes that have emerged and make an updated set of recommendations for elected members to consider.
The Strategy, Policy & Finance Committee will receive this report at its meeting on 11 August 2022 when members will consider the report, deliberate and make recommendations to the Council for its consideration later next month.
The proposal that went out to consultation
As part of efforts to address Rotorua’s housing shortage, Council is investigating the potential to sell reserve sites that may not meet open space requirements, make these available for housing and use the proceeds to improve the city’s reserves network.
The proposal identifies two reserves and eight parts of reserves that could be used for housing of various types, including social housing.
No decisions have yet been made. Feedback from the community will be used to assist with decision-making about whether to proceed and how.
It is proposed that if the sale of the identified sites goes ahead, the proceeds of sale would be used to improve Rotorua’s reserves network in the areas where sites are sold and/or purchasing new reserve land in areas where there is currently an under-supply.
Direct sale to Kāinga Ora, with conditions, is proposed for some of the sites.
The 10 sites were identified during a review of urban reserves that was undertaken as part of implementing the council’s Open Space Level of Service Policy, which was adopted last April following community consultation.
The areas proposed for disposal total approximately 9.5 hectares, about 0.6% of Council’s overall reserves network which currently includes more than 370 individual reserves totalling approximately 1500 hectares.
Decisions still to be made include:
- Whether or not to proceed with the revocation and sale of any reserve or part reserve;
- The legal method for revocation and disposal (ie via a Local Bill or Reserves Act process);
- The reserves to be developed or enhanced with funds from the proceeds of any sales;
- Any conditions to be applied to housing development by purchasers.
More about the proposal HERE