SmartGrowth implementation reaches milestone
An important milestone has been reached in the implementation of SmartGrowth, the 50-year plan for managing growth in
the western Bay of Plenty.
In September 2005, Environment Bay of Plenty adopted a proposed change to the Bay of Plenty Regional Policy Statement to
formalise aspects of SmartGrowth. Environment Bay of Plenty has now released its decisions on submissions on that
proposal. The proposed change, which establishes urban limits around Tauranga and other urban areas in the western Bay
of Plenty, has been amended in accordance with the Council’s decisions from 7 November 2006.
John Mandemaker, Environment Bay of Plenty’s Group Manager Strategic Policy, says the western Bay of Plenty’s projected
population growth will mostly be accommodated by residential development associated with existing urban areas.
“This approach will stop the spread of urban Tauranga around the whole Tauranga Harbour, and help to protect the special
qualities of the harbour,” says Mr Mandemaker. “The proposed change also provides for Maori to establish housing in the
areas they have a special connection to, helps protect the region’s rural values and allows the area’s versatile soils
to be available for food production.”
After earlier drafts had been prepared with its SmartGrowth partners, Tauranga City Council, Western Bay of Plenty
District Council, and tangata whenua representatives, Environment Bay of Plenty adopted the proposed change and called
for submissions. The submissions were heard by a panel of hearing commissioners in June and July and their
recommendations were adopted by Environment Bay of Plenty on 26 October 2006.
“This formal step has given the community the opportunity to express its views on the approach that’s being taken. While
some amendments have been made as a result of submissions, the regional council has confirmed its intention to establish
urban limits.”
Submitters now have the opportunity to appeal the Council’s decisions on their submissions to the Environment Court.
When any appeals are resolved and Environment Bay of Plenty finally approves the Proposed Change, it will be fully
incorporated into the Operative Bay of Plenty Regional Policy Statement. The three councils will then give effect to the
change through their regional and district plans.
ends