“The proposal to build a “The Warehouse” on Pah Rd is ill-considered, and locals are rightly voicing their strong concern. It is heartening to see the official Council report also recommends it be declined,” says Julie Fairey, Roskill Community Voice member on the Puketapapa Local Board.
The Hearing Agenda for the resource consent was released on Monday 7th February, with Auckland Council’s planning consultant recommending that the application be declined, and almost universal opposition from submitters.
Of the 23 submissions, 21 oppose the application, while the remaining 2 are neutral. Those submitting against include the James Wallace Arts Trust, the Onehunga Business Association, and the Parks, Sport and Recreation department of the Auckland Council. All local residents who submitted on the proposal indicated they opposed it.
“Objections raised by locals include concerns about traffic, noise, inadequate parking, vegetation and flooding risk. The proposal breaches a number of existing planning documents, and is out of character with the neighbourhood. It seems likely that the proposal would have a negative impact not only for local residents but also for those who use Seymour Park as well as nearby shopping centres at Royal Oak, Three Kings and Onehunga,” says Michael Wood, Roskill Community Voice member on the Puketapapa Local Board.
“Residents who have talked to us have spoken of existing problems with parking, traffic, noise and poor planning in the area. They wish to have these issues resolved, not exacerbated by the incompatible arrival of a ‘big box’ retail development in their neighbourhood,” says Fairey.
“We are aware that many other locals oppose this development but missed out on an opportunity to submit to the resource consent process. We hope they will take the opportunity to sign the petition circulating, and we aim to assist them to have their voice heard. Given the planner’s recommendation and the high level of local opposition, the independent commissioners must decline this application,” says Wood.
The Council officers' report can be read on the Auckland Council website here.
