Fast-track backtrack by Government too little, too late, Auckland Mayor says

Auckland's Mayor has voiced strong criticism of the government's recent moves to amend the fast-track legislation for housing developments, deeming the changes "too little, too late." The Mayor, a consistent opponent of the current fast-track regime, believes the proposed adjustments do not go far enough to rectify the system's shortcomings.

Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop recently announced plans to alter the rules. These changes aim to empower local councils to accurately charge developers involved in fast-track projects for the associated infrastructure costs. This move is intended to ensure that the burden of development-related infrastructure is appropriately borne by those undertaking the projects.

However, the Mayor remains unconvinced that these modifications will adequately address the core issues. The fast-track regime was implemented with the goal of accelerating housing development, a critical need in Auckland and across New Zealand. Despite the government's efforts to refine the process, the Mayor's stance suggests that the fundamental problems within the system persist, hindering effective and equitable development.