Auckland Council Media release

9 March 2011

Following a decade of large scale developments in central Auckland, a recommendation to clearly define publicly-accessible open spaces within these developments was unanimously supported by the Waitemata Local Board at its monthly business meeting last night.

Since the late 1990’s, the central area District Plan gave developers the opportunity to receive bonus floor space in return for setting aside open space for public use.

“Unfortunately, there is currently no requirement for developers to sign-post the open space for public access,” says Shale Chambers, Chair of the Waitemata Local Board.

“This board has moved to ensure these public spaces are clearly publicised and uniformly sign-posted, ensuring greater access and enjoyment for residents and visitors to the city centre.

“There are many examples of locations across the central city that display inadequate signage. These range from the observation deck in the former BNZ tower, access paths connecting through to Queen Street, a sizeable lawn in the Beaumont Quarter and a seating area in the Viaduct Harbour,” he says.

The concept of providing bonus floor space was seen as ‘win-win’ in the drafting of the central area District Plan – developers get a larger development and the public can access space in buildings that they would otherwise could not.

“We intend to rectify the inadequate signage on our city centre open spaces and, in turn, reclaim these areas by better serving the original intent of the district plan,” says Mr Chambers.

ENDS

For media assistance:

Shale Chambers

Waitemata Local Board Chair

Ph: (021) 286-7111 E: [email protected]