Master plan proposed for Orakei development

An agreement between the council and Redwood Group Ltd to produce a master plan for any future development of the Orakei peninsula is welcome news to residents in the area, says the Mayor of Auckland city, the Hon John Banks.

"The community has been asking for such an approach and I'm please that we have been able to sign an agreement with the developer to get such a plan underway," said Mr Banks.

"This is a victory for the community and a tribute to common sense. The master plan will seek to deliver the best urban design outcome for an area where aesthetics, height and density, roading and traffic management are uppermost in the minds of the local residents, he said.

"We're pleased that Redwood Group is willing to participate in finding the best possible solutions in the development of this important area. They have also agreed to pay for the process, which indicates significant goodwill on their part."

"Quality residential housing, great access to public transport and public open spaces can potentially be incorporated in the plan and under the agreement there is opportunity for community engagement on the issues," said Mr Banks.

There will now be two occasions for public consultation. On 19 March, there will be an open day at 246 Orakei Road, between 10am and 7pm, where people can identify key issues and an opportunity later to look at some of the options being considered.

"We now have the prospect of a good outcome for the area. The alternative is a development within existing rules which could lead to an ad hoc appearance for this valuable part of the city," said Mr Banks.

"This is an example of how business and the community can work together in the best interests of the city."