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Why are draft changes looking at lowering the current upper limit for earthworks activities in residential and commercial areas?
The upper limit (currently 2,000m3 per project) should be lowered to reflect the sensitive nature of the surrounding environment where earthworks take place. Such a volume is considered far greater than what could reasonably be anticipated to occur on an urban site without resulting in adverse effects. However, it’s important to note that for the purpose of subdivision or utilities, the volume thresholds are proposed to be controlled separately in urban areas, given the need for a higher volume of earthworks.
Why are you considering replacing per project-based standard for volume threshold for earthworks activities with a site area or frequency of activity threshold?
Current rules relating to earthworks volumes don’t provide a clear direction, particularly where earthworks occur over multiple sites, or where multiple discrete ‘projects’ occur as part of a larger overall activity within a site. This could allow for two or more earthworks activities with more than minor cumulative effects to occur simultaneously on a site as of right. Conversely, the rules may require resource consent for the undertaking of earthworks in relation to two or more very separate activities if they were assessed cumulatively as part of a larger ‘project’.
Why are you considering introducing limits on stockpile heights in the Rural Zone from sensitive activities?
Current setback rules for stockpiling only relate to reducing windblown dust and are triggered when close to a neighbouring dwelling. The rules don’t address the potential visual effects of stockpiles on these dwellings and public spaces. While stockpiles fit within the rural environment, it’s considered appropriate to add a height limit, to protect the outlook and visual amenity of neighbouring dwellings and public spaces.
Where can I find more information about the District Plan Review of earthworks-related rules to date?
For more information about the Council’s preferred option for draft changes to earthworks, and all the work done to date as part of the review visit Council website where all the reports developed for the District Plan Review are kept.
