Why do we need a spatial plan?
Currently, there is a shortage of land for building new homes, and many of the existing houses are not fit for purpose.
As the population grows in the Eastern Bay, along with expanding the Putauaki Trust Industrial Zone, developing aquaculture and growing existing industries, we could need about 5,500 more homes by 2055.
Although more residential land is becoming available, it is not enough to meet short- or long-term demand.
The limited housing supply is restricting economic development in the Eastern Bay. Put simply, without enough homes, it’s hard for our economy to grow – where would any new workers live?
Development in the Eastern Bay is also limited by things like natural hazards, conservation land, productive farmland, and land ownership rules – all of which restrict where new growth and housing density can happen. Being among the most challenging areas for development in the country, these issues will only get harder with a changing climate.
We need to explore potential areas across the Eastern Bay that can support population growth while unlocking economic opportunities.
This is where the spatial plan comes in: Our Places – Eastern Bay Spatial Plan will help local and national agencies that deliver infrastructure, housing development and other critical services (such as health and education) understand future priorities, resourcing and funding needs to support the Eastern Bay.
It will reflect collective aspirations for the sub-region, and be used to inform council Long Term Plan processes, District Plan changes, and government infrastructure investment decisions.
In short, it will provide a pathway towards 2055 and help us work better together to get there.