Independent Commissioners Decline Bunnings Application

 

An application by DIY chain Bunnings to build a new large format retail store on the corner of Evenden and Pakowhai Road has been rejected by independent commissioners.

 

Commissioners Alan Watson and Hugh Hamilton returned their decision to regulatory body Hastings District Council this week.

Bunnings proposed building a retail store with a floor area of 10,263m2, an outdoor timber yard of 2,311m2 and an outdoor nursery of 1,547m2 – a total of 14,121m2 situated next to the proposed path of the future Northern Arterial Route.

In summary, the independent commissioners identified two main reasons for declining the application;

· The development would adversely affect the productive soils as it was a significant industrial building.

· That the development was contrary to Hastings District Council’s objectives and policies under the District Plan which provides for the sustainable management of the Heretaunga Plains.

Group Manager: Resource Management, Mike Maguire, says Hastings District Council is happy to work with Bunnings, and any other large format retail chain wanting to develop in the district, to help find an alternative site.

“Hastings District Council has a retail strategy and a Large-Format-Retail zone designed specifically to provide for developments of this type.”

 

A full copy of the decision can be found on Hastings District Council’s website www.hastingsdc.govt.nz