Auckland Plan an excellent, aspirational step ahead

Businesses will welcome the launch of the Draft Auckland Plan today for the certainty it will bring to investment decision making, the Employers & Manufacturers Association says.

“There’s a lot to applaud in the Draft Auckland Plan,” said EMA’s acting chief executive Bruce Goldsworthy, “especially that its goals are aspirational.”

“For instance setting a goal of six per cent GDP growth a year for the city represents a big challenge but it also recognizes we need to aim high if we are to achieve the level of ambition we all have for Auckland.

“Perhaps the most important thing for business is the sense of certainty the Plan provides for business investment.

“As the first such plan for Auckland as a single city, it lays out for businesses where they should be located as it provides clarity over where the infrastructure they need to succeed will be developed.

“The goal of being a ‘business friendly’ city will also be welcomed by all businesses, though a big challenge for the bureaucrats to achieve.

“Overall the Draft Plan is an excellent step ahead for Auckland and EMA is looking forward to working closely with the Council’s various agencies and CCOs to ensure business contributes to, and maximizes the gains from the Plan’s implementation.”