Councillors take critical steps to get housing right for Ōtautahi Christchurch

Greater Ōtautahi welcomes the steps taken by Christchurch City Councillors to increase housing across the city.

On Monday, councillors voted on the bulk of the changes that make up Plan Change 14. These changes allow more density around commercial centres, in-line with directions from central government. Councillors were able to propose alternatives to the recommendations made by the Independent Hearings Panel. While some of the alternatives passed by councillors served to limit building heights and density in certain areas, some of the others showed a true vision for how our city can grow.

“Overall, PC 14 represents a fantastic opportunity for the city to grow sustainably. Allowing more housing where people want to live is an important step for the future of Ōtautahi. This means that people are able to live with dignity in a home that is more affordable” says Greater Ōtautahi chairperson M Grace-Stent.

A major opportunity was missed to expand the high-density “walkable catchment” around the city center. The proposal was to extend it a short distance north of Bealey Ave, and to rezone large parts of the Sydenham industrial area to be mixed-use. This alternative proposal by Cllr Templeton was voted down in a tied vote.

“That alternative proposal would have enabled a huge amount of housing right by the central city, which would have taken intensification pressure away from the suburbs, where residents have expressed the most concern about the incoming changes. We’ll continue to fight for more housing throughout the city through future district plan changes.”

There were however other great alternative proposals passed, in addition to what the IHP has put forward.

Heritage protections were lifted from some derelict buildings thanks to Cllr Harrison-Hunt, particularly in Riccarton, where housing choice is sorely needed to support renters, particularly students. 

Cllr Keown’s proposal to increase height limits and rezone to mixed-use on the old Deans Ave stockyard site might finally allow that location to be developed after being empty for over 30 years. The City Spine Qualifying Matter will also allow council to protect and expand public transport corridors through Papanui and Riccarton.

“All in all, dozens of local and town centres, and all of the area within the 'Four Ave's' was up-zoned on Monday. This will allow a huge amount of new housing to fill in where our residents need it most: close to where they live, shop and play.”

The new rules go into effect beginning December 12. The alternatives also now go to Chris Bishop as Minister of Housing for final review and approval next year. We urge him to reject the restrictive alternatives that were passed today, particularly those around Riccarton walkable catchment reduction, Hornby height limits, and sunlight access. 

We are looking ahead to the Medium Density Residential Standards changes that are likely to be coming before council later next year, and for any subsequent National Policy Statements that will fill in some of the gaps.

About us

Greater Ōtautahi is a non-partisan organisation consisting of Ōtautahi Christchurch residents who want to help create a better city. We advocate for increasing access to housing, and improving public and active transport. We’re working for better amenities, safe streets, and a vibrant city.  We want to see a future Ōtautahi that is liveable and equitable for generations to come.

Email: greaterotautahi@gmail.com 
Twitter: @GreaterOtautahi
Instagram: @greaterotautahi
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/greaterotautahi 
Media contact: M Grace-Stent, e-mail for mobile number