Council’s building services team continues to process high volumes of consents, with 651 consents issued for 2025 – over 100 more than in 2024.

To 19 December this year, 250 consents had been issued for new homes (compared to 173 in 2024), 78 for pole sheds (compared to 59 in 2024), and six for new milking sheds.

The value of consents issued this year was $191 million, compared to $174m in 2024.

Group Manager of Compliance and Development Ian Hyde said the trend of high housing consent numbers continued as blocks of residential land were developed for retirement villages and new subdivisions.

“We have consented new subdivisions in Methven and Ashburton, and a hearing for a private plan change that would result in 160 new homes in north-west Ashburton happened earlier this month.

“As well as the new homes, there are also consents for commercial buildings and alterations, and that all paints a positive picture for the Ashburton District.”

Council also processed 1128 LIMs (Land Information Memorandums), which is 228 more than in 2024 and 96 more than the previous highest number in 2021. This year’s LIMs included 993 for residential properties and 101 for commercial.

All the LIMs were processed within the mandatory 10 days turnaround time.

Council staff also carried out 4114 building inspections, compared to 3410 in 2024, with December being a particularly busy month and inspections happening right up to two days before Christmas Day.

Mr Hyde said building activity was expected to remain strong in 2026.

“We’re looking forward to continuing to help with the various exciting developments around the district as well as giving effect to changes like the granny flat legislation that takes effect from 15 January.”

For more information on the legislation, visit building.govt.nz