Council would like to hear what you think of the route options identified before proceeding with land designation.

Land Designation

The designation is a form of “spot zoning” over the route in the district plan, which authorises the necessary work along the route without the need for a land use consent.

The designation, if confirmed, will protect the land for the new bridge and associated roads to ensure construction work can proceed in 2024/25. 

Council will seek a lapsing period that allows it to “give effect” to the designation by 2024/25.

The Notice of Requirement (the application for the designation) will be publicly notified and anyone can lodge a submission in support or in opposition.

Submitters can appear and speak in support of their submission at the hearing.  Submissions are still valid and will still be considered even if a submitter chooses not to appear at the hearing.

The Council will appoint an independent Commissioner to conduct the hearing.  Following the hearing the Commissioner will make a decision (on behalf of the Council) to confirm, cancel or modify the designation requirement. The decision can be appealed to the Environment Court.

The Commissioner’s recommendation will take account of the Notice of Requirement, planners’ recommendations, the relevant national and regional planning documents and information presented at the hearing.

Learn more about the Land Designation Process.