Consultation, property rights and economic impact

Consultation, property rights and economic impact issues dominate the Property Council’s submission on the billboards and signage by-laws

A flawed and woefully inadequate consultation process regarding Auckland City Council’s proposed billboard and signage by-laws has strained relationships with commercial property owners and investors within Auckland City, according to the Property Council of New Zealand.

In summarising the Property Council’s submission on the proposed by-laws, chief executive Connal Townsend said it was regrettably necessary to criticise the City for failing to consult affected businesses and property owners about the economic impact of the changes.

“Auckland City Council’s proposed by-laws could cost property owners $120 million in lost revenue. At a time when rates are going up, development and financial contributions are squeezing margins, and the spiraling cost of land threatens to make investing in new developments unaffordable, the City has come up with the policy that, if implemented, would effectively knock out entire businesses and destroy over 400 jobs.

“If that kind of economic impact doesn’t justify a comprehensive dialogue between Auckland City Council and affected stakeholders, then what does?

“The Property Council also questions whether the proposed by-laws could even be legally implemented.

Businesses have a constitutional right to advertise and every person or organisation has the right to freedom of expression. The proposed by-laws significantly undermine the right to advertise, which is a point that further calls into question the legality of the changes,” Connal Townsend said.

Notwithstanding the lack of consultation from the City, the Property Council recommends a number of amendments to the proposed by-laws, which are signed to save jobs, encourage investment and contribute to the visual amenity of Auckland City.

“As our submission points out, members of the Property Council participate in Auckland City Council’s Urban Design panel. Our members are willing to continue providing rigorous and well-considered advice on the impact of outdoor signage from a visual amenity and urban design perspective. Let’s make the existing rules work, rather than apply a blanket ban on advertising,” Connal Townsend said.

End.

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