Medium Density Residential Standards, supported by both major parties, are now gone. However, we face a new and related challenge.

Government policy is now to zone a similar number of new dwellings to what MDRS would have provided (this was the compromise for removing MDRS). Instead of spreading intensification across the entire city, the Council has produced a draft plan that includes fifty metre (approximately 13 storey) zones around major corridors, train stations and town centres.

Under the new proposed scheme, much of Parnell, roughly the area North and West of St Stephen’s Avenue, is zoned 50m in the draft plan. Given Parnell’s recent experience with serious flood damage, a major sewer-related sinkhole, and sewerage leaking on the shoreline, our infrastructure is plainly not up to such intensification. I also believe it will bring a significant change to the character of New Zealand’s oldest suburb.

I need your support to pressure Council to amend its plan to preserve the unique character of our suburb. This is urgent.