Plan changes confirmed for North Shore

A new urban design code and improved stormwater management policy are now officially part of the North Shore section of Auckland Council’s District Plan.

The urban design code sets to improve the quality and standard of all building alterations and developments within the small business clusters and town centres of North Shore.

Key urban design topics will be set out in an assessment criteria, giving both the council and applicants clear and comprehensive guidelines to follow.

Addressing the area’s issues with stormwater and streams, changes and revisions are now in place to minimise the impacts that come with development. Included are a number of integrated approaches that look at stormwater runoff, buffers, better control of site works and avoiding flood areas.

Councillor Ann Hartley, said both changes will result in positive improvements for North Shore.

“These changes have been a work in progress for a number of years now. While quite different, the two areas have both been cause for concern and these policies offer a long-term solution.

“The urban design code will ultimately make these areas better places to live and work, with the criteria aiming to bring safety, vibrancy and economic benefits.

“From an environmental perspective a new way forward for the management of stormwater was imperative. The Council has put it place a very integrated approach, all the changes and revisions work as a collective that will bring significant improvements that are much needed,” said Councillor Hartley.

Set in motion by the former North Shore City Council, the changes known as Plan Change 22 and Plan Change 30 are operative in the North Shore District Plan from today.