Focus On Housing Positive, Budget Missing Major Factor

Focus On Housing Positive, Budget Missing Major Factor

Today’s Budget announcement glaringly omits addressing the cost of earthquake strengthening New Zealand’s buildings.

Earthquake-prone buildings are a major issue for towns and cities across the country. At some point the Government will need to step in and assist property owners with the significant costs of creating a safer New Zealand.

Property Council chief executive Connal Townsend said the Government’s $2.1 billion commitment to the Christchurch rebuild and its focus on housing affordability were welcome.

“Fast-tracking legislation to allow for more Housing Accords between the Government and local authorities shows the importance of this issue.

“These accords must involve the private sector to ensure that economically feasible locations are selected, supply and demand factors are understood and development ensues.

“The Government will need to ensure the accords do not hinder the rebuild by creating extra pressure for industry resources and materials. Momentum needs to be sustained if not increased in Christchurch.”

Property Council supports the Government’s four-point focus for this year’s Budget, particularly the priorities on building a more productive and competitive economy and supporting the rebuilding of Christchurch.

Business, investors and residents in Canterbury need certainty about where and when Government investment will occur.

ENDS

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