Resource Management Act Reform Legislation

The Times-Age asked for the Council’s reaction to Government Resource Management Act reform legislation introduced to Parliament yesterday. The following response was provided:

Attributable to David Hopman

“Much of the focus of the reforms is around simplifying the RMA processes, which will be welcomed by many.

At this stage, the detail of the proposed reforms is still being considered. Changes are likely to take several years to be fully implemented, however work such as the current review of the Draft Wairarapa Combined District Plan will likely consider the proposals the RMA reforms are addressing.

In terms of funding, Council consenting fees are based on cost recovery. As such, if less Council work is required, then fees will appropriately adjusted.”

Additional information regarding the WCDP

A review was undertaken on the current Wairarapa Combined District Plan, and as a result a Draft Wairarapa Combined District Plan is out for consultation. This work has been carried out with the knowledge that reforms to the RMA were planned and the draft incorporates national planning standards developed by the Ministry for the Environment.

The plan is available at: www.wairarapaplan.co.nz