Developers give consents policy a warm welcome

File photo / Paul Estcourt

The commercial building and property investment sector has welcomed National's plan for a six-month resource consent application deadline.

Hawkins Construction chief executive Chris Hunter said the proposal was "great news".

He said investment had suffered over the past 10 years because of delays in obtaining consents for projects.

"This has burnt a lot of property owners, developers and investors to the point where many will not return because of the risk and or the cost associated with consents."

The change would be particularly important for Auckland's residential market, Hunter said.

Hawkins' big recent projects included the Westpac building in Britomart, Aotea Square and its carpark and the Auckland Art Gallery's $121 million upgrade and extension.

Scott Pritchard, chief executive of AMP NZ Office, which is redeveloping its ANZ tower on Auckland's Albert St, was also delighted about National's policy.

"Any change which reduces compliance and regulatory approvals is well received," Pritchard said.

Property Council chief executive Connal Townsend said new industrial developments, subdivisions, retail development and regional infrastructure were often stymied because of red tape and delays.

"Our members have consistently reported their frustration at consenting delays that are enormously costly and stifle progress."

But Rodney Dickens of Strategic Risk Analysis in Orewa, which does detailed analysis of the real estate sector, questioned National's plans.

"It's a good idea in theory, but I am not sure how well it will work in reality.

"For example, if councils don't want to be rushed on a project all they have to do is initially turn it down or find ways of slowing it down before a formal application is lodged."