Heritage Heavyweight Partners Auckland 2040

Auckland’s Character Coalition isn’t leaving any room for error in the on-going battle with the Council’s Draft Unitary Plan (DUP) announcing it’s to partner Auckland 2040.

Newly formed, Auckland 2040 is a coalition of local non-political groups passionately concerned about the long-term implications of the DUP. They want Auckland Council to ‘ReThink the Plan’ and for example, balance intensification with infrastructure capability and urban character. They’re also opposed to the current ‘fast tracking’ of the DUP and while now largely North Shore based, they’re a force determined to spread citywide.

Character Coalition Chair Sally Hughes says that partnership is a strategic one that will strengthen and build their position in the DUP debate.

“The Unitary Plan presents a once in a lifetime chance to get the treatment of heritage and character right. Partnering with Auckland 2040 will strengthen our voice and support our resident groups who are perhaps the most affected by the Council’s Plans.

“We’ve a lot in common with Auckland 2040. We want the Council to ‘ReThink the Plan and we want residents given the chance to have a meaningful say on the DUP. We’re not opposed to growth but it must respect our communities and heritage,” Sally said.

The Character Coalition is an association of 60 residential associations from across Auckland and has as its purpose the conservation and preservation of the city’s heritage buildings (commercial and residential) and character suburbs. Formed 12 months ago, it arose out of concerns with the Council’s new development ‘rule book’ – Unitary Plan, in particular the lack of adequate protection for heritage buildings and character areas.

Auckland 2040 spokesperson Guy Haddleton sees the alliance with the Character Coalition as beneficial to both parties and should ring alarm bells for Auckland Council.

“Having the Coalition on board increases significantly our reach across the city which fits with our aim to represent all 1.5 million Auckland residents. We think residents are the most vulnerable in the DUP debate and we want to strengthen their position,” he said.

ENDS

© Scoop Media