A proposed two-hectare commercial development on paddocks below Mitre 10 Mega and Gate Pa New World hinges on the outcome of a planning application.
Tauranga City Council this week kicked off the process to enable Dean Waddell's JWL Investment Trust Ld to lodge a private planning change over a 2.5ha block
of land midway up Courtney Rd.
JWL Investment wants to change the zoning from Residential A to Commercial Business - a process that will involve a publicly notified planning application followed by a hearing chaired by an independent commissioner.
The 1.9ha of usable land owned by the trust has been earmarked for trade-based services with ancillary retail, such as light fittings, tiles and electrical supplies.
Much of the land was formerly owned by city councillor Murray Guy, who sold it to Mr Waddell about five years ago.
Mr Guy, who declared an interest and did not take part in a council discussion this week, later told the Bay of Plenty Times that the purchase was originally to enable construction of the stormwater retention pond needed to service the new retail developments along Cameron Rd.
He said it made sense for Mr Waddell to acquire the whole property because of the flow-on effects of the water on the area lower down.
The paddocks below his old house used to be used for grazing and parking his bus fleet - he has since shifted to a new home in Pyes Pa. Mr Waddell also bought several Courtney Rd homes adjacent to Mr Guy's old property to complete the development block.
If the zoning change was granted, it effectively extends the commercial area from the existing businesses in the Courtney Rd valley, including the concrete pipe yard.
A report to the council from city directions manager Christine Jones said the rezoning seeks to provide further development opportunities in an area that was not appropriate for residential housing and development.
She said it was low-lying with some stormwater management issues and almost completely surrounded by higher land.
Because the application was for private benefit, all costs will be met by the trust.
