What are our significant resource consent issues?

When the first district plan was written it was a legal requirement to detail the significant resource management issues for the district.  Based on these issues and the overall objective of the Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA), the objectives, policies and rules for the district were set.
Many of the issues focused on the effects of land use and land management and the potential risk activities may have on:

  • Lakes and stream water quality
  • Amenity
  • Natural and cultural heritage features; and
  • Maori cultural and spiritual values.

With the most recent amendments to the RMA it is no longer a requirement of the district plan to identify and discuss the major issues.  However, we still think it’s a good idea for the new plan to start with an appreciation of what the issues are, so objectives are set and a planning framework can be developed.
The above issues to a certain extent have been managed appropriately during the past 10-15 years of district plan operation.  They are considered on a daily basis with every resource consent application that council receives, assesses and decides whether to approve or decline.
All of the above issues are current.  However, many other issues have developed which are of global, national, and local significance.  Some of the big issues that we are already looking at are:

  • Climate change as a natural hazard that needs to be managed and planned for.
  • Managing growth so that it does not impact negatively on the range of natural and built features that makes the South Waikato unique.
  • Balancing the desire for a range of lifestyle choices in a way that does not impact on our natural and cultural heritage, or over-extend the infrastructure needed to support modern living (roads, footpaths, sewers, water supply).
  • Advocating the design of better buildings and subdivisions so that resources, energy and crime are minimised, and amenity and visual appeal are maximised.
  • Getting ready for renewable energy options and smarter transportation options.

The review of the district plan is aimed at addressing these and other issues in the context of meeting the foreseeable needs of future generations.
Your view on these and other issues are crucial in helping guide the development of a new district plan that is South Waikato responsive.