MEDIA RELEASE

New building consent initiatives a positive step forward

For immediate release on 25 March 2008

“New initiatives to improve the building consent process for starter homes are positive steps forward,” said Local Government New Zealand President Basil Morrison.

Mr Morrison is responding to yesterday’s announcement by Building and Construction Minister Shane Jones about new initiatives to streamline the Building Act.

“Since the new Building Act was introduced, the costs and implementation processes for councils and homeowners have steadily increased,” said President Basil Morrison.

“Providing good building services is critical for local communities and these measures should go some way towards improving the process.

“However, let’s keep these changes in perspective. The building consent costs are a very small part of the overall building cost. These changes will only offer minimal relief to potential buyers in the affordability of new housing,” said Mr Morrison.

“Addressing housing affordability is complex and long-term. Short-term, any initiatives to reduce building compliance costs will benefit both homeowners and local government.

“The potential benefit of the proposed changes will arise from reduced processing time, rather than reduced cost.

“We look forward to working with central government to develop these initiatives into workable solutions,” said Mr Morrison.

ENDS

Local Government New Zealand is the national voice of all 85 councils of New Zealand.

© Scoop Media