MfE is seeking input to the first set of National Planning Standards (the standards). The development of the standards has arisen out of the recent Resource Legislation Amendment Act (2017). They are expected to deliver a common framework and some standardised material for planning documents – plans will still be able to reflect local circumstances and community preferences. Implementation of the standards will be from 2019 onwards.
Water New Zealand will be putting in a submission at the end of July and attending an MfE workshop in June to shape the initial phase. We are seeking your input to inform this work.
A common structure for planning documents is proposed with common content to be included in some areas (for example, to support national direction)
A more vertically integrated structure is proposed. That is, first by high level topic, then by zone or issue, then all the objectives, policies and methods grouped together for that zone or issue. It is also proposed that planning documents be streamlined by including some common content (e.g. related to national direction) and excluding some content that will instead be provided outside the plan as supplementary information for users (i.e. how to apply for a resource consent). A common approach to spatial layers and planning zones is also mooted. These changes are expected to make plans more user friendly, improve consistency (including in the implementation of national direction) and provide a clearer line of sight between objectives, policies and rules.
Technical guidance supporting national direction is to be excluded from the first set of standards.
Excluding this material outright from the first set of standards would be a missed opportunity given the current need to improve the accessibility and uptake of technical material. While it would take more effort up front, it could deliver efficiency benefits if focused on priority areas.
Common definitions and metrics are to be developed but water related terms have been excluded.
This is because the choice of criteria used to prioritise the work more strongly weighted definitions and metrics found in district plans compared to those found in regional plans and policy statements.
Please provide any other feedback about how you think the national planning standards could support delivery of three waters services.
Your input is requested by the end of June.
Feel free to get in touch by phone or email.
Charlotte Cudby
Senior Policy Analyst
charlotte.cudby@waternz.org.nz
+64 4 495 0893