National tables policy to fast-track urban development

Public consultation has opened on legislation designed to fast-track the redevelopment and regeneration of urban areas.Building and Construction Minister Dr Nick Smith describes the proposed Urban Development Authority (UDA) legislation as necessary for alleviating Auckland’s housing and infrastructure growth pressures.“UDAs would enable major redevelopment projects like those proposed or under way in areas such as Hobsonville, Tamaki, Three Kings and Northcote to occur three to five years faster”, he said in a press release.He said that the proposed new authorities “need the power to assemble parcels of land, develop site specific plans, reconfigure infrastructure and to construct a mix of public and private buildings”.The proposal for UDAs was put forward by the Productivity Commission.The deadline for submissions is 19 May 2017. For more information click here or visit:http://www.mbie.govt.nz/info-services/housing-property/consultation/urban-development-authorities