Christchurch City Councillors Request PC 14 Pause

The Medium Density Residential Standards (MDRS) were a compulsory requirement of the previous government and would make it permittable to build up to three dwellings on a site, up to 11 meters in height without resource consent. Christchurch City Council took a delayed and more bespoke approach to implementing the standards due to a qualifying matter that affected all properties around sunlight access and recession planes.

An Independent Hearings Panel (IHP) for Christchurch City Council has been hearing submission both for and against the plan, with hearings and evidence being submitted since August 2023. Late last week CCC put forward a request to the Minister of the new coalition government to put the PC 14 process on hold due to the coalition government signalling in their 100-day plan that the MDRS will no longer be mandatory.

This has created a state of limbo that affects not only Council planning staff, but any private submitter, lawyers and planners involved in the process. Uncertainty looms large over the fate of submissions and raises questions about how this will impact districts such as Waimakariri and Selwyn where the Medium Density Residential Standards have already been implemented.

If an answer from the Minister is not received promptly Council staff and private submitters will need to continue with hearings scheduled to recommence in January 2024. The request for a pause also raises questions on whether other Tier 1 Councils will pull back on the MDRS.

Navigating the current uncertainty surrounding the requested pause to PC 14 demands an informed approach. Eliot Sinclair’s planning team remains abreast of the evolving situation. Eliot Sinclair’s expertise in planning, consent applications and private plan changes and our in-depth understanding of the ongoing changes makes us informed advisors to help you navigate these uncertain times.

With the potential shift in the mandatory nature of MDRS, Eliot Sinclair can offer guidance on aligning projects with upcoming legislative modifications. Our multi-disciplinary expertise and insights can ensure we can adapt swiftly to changes, mitigating potential disruptions to ongoing and upcoming projects.

Amidst the uncertainty and potential suspension of PC 14, partnering with Eliot Sinclair ensures you not only stay informed but also gaining access to strategic counsel. Our proactive approach and specialized expertise equip clients to navigate these turbulent waters, ensuring projects remain resilient and adaptable in the face of regulatory fluctuations.