High Court Ruling is a Good Sign

2 May 2014

High Court Ruling is a Good Sign

Property Council welcomes the High Court ruling regarding heritage-listed Harcourts Building on Wellington’s Lambton Quay.

As reported, Wellington investor Mark Dunajtschik has won an appeal against the Environment Court blocking his plans to demolish the structure.

The High Court has now ordered a re-hearing of the case with its consideration of public safety requirements seriously accounted for.

Property Council chief executive Connal Townsend says Property Council has consistently advocated for public safety to be taken into account when dealing with heritage-listed buildings – as do the costs associated with strengthening.

“The Environment Court must consider other legislation than simply narrow Resource Management Act provisions,” said Mr Townsend.

“This is vital to ensure that decisions are based on an inclusive and objective assessment of all relevant factors; and in particular the risk to public safety and surrounding buildings.”

About Property Council New Zealand
Property Council is New Zealand’s commercial property voice. Property Council represents New Zealand's office, industrial, retail, property funds and multi-unit residential property owners, investors and managers. Property Council’s branches throughout the country represent some of the largest commercial property portfolios in Auckland, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Wellington, East Coast/Hawkes Bay and the South Island and Otago region, the value of which exceeds $30 billion.

ENDS

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