Residential Housing Review

Demographic projections indicate:

• Hutt City will need 3800 more dwellings by 2021
• the majority of demand will be for terraced units, apartments and townhouses.

 

This demand will come from older people wanting to downsize from large family homes but stay living locally, and small families and young people seeking alternative housing options.  The single house on a large section is increasingly unaffordable for many people.

In response to these trends, the Council proposes to update the residential provisions in its District Plan.

Key proposals

The Council proposals include:

• targeting infill housing and multi-unit developments in and around Hutt CBD, other centres, and close to transport routes
• introducing design guides to better control the effects of new development
• discouraging infill housing from low-density suburban areas with significant character.

The Council also proposes to make minor amendments to improve the workability of other residential rules, including:

• introducing greater controls on development of sites with slopes greater than 40 degrees
• making allowance for some building in side and rear yards
• providing for a standard sunlight access plane
• adjusting the provision for decks.

Public consultation

The discussion document ‘Providing for greater housing choice in Hutt City’ was released in early July. A summary pamphlet was sent to all residents. Feedback closed 11 August 2008.

Download the summary pamphlet here (PDF 283kb)

Read the discussion document here  (includes the submission form)

Next steps

Information from this consultation will help to prepare a final proposal for the review of the residential provisions in Hutt City’s District Plan. The Council is expected to consult formally on the proposed plan change in late 2008.

More information

Jane Black
04 801 6862