Having a plan to stimulate the economy and tackle the growth challenge will be key to moving forward for the Whau.
The 10-year Budget proposes increasing total capital investment in Auckland to more than $31 billion over the next decade, helping to not only deliver crucial infrastructure but also helping to stimulate jobs and the economy.
Investing in infrastructure for housing will play a key role in that plan, says Whau councillor Tracy Mulholland.
“Auckland Council's Economist estimates that Auckland needs 28,000 more dwellings than it does at present to catch up to Auckland's growth – that's a lot, but that estimate has come down significantly from its peak of 36,000 in 2016.
“So, our current rate of building is gradually catching up and developments such as the Avanda Group's work at Crown Lynn Yards and Kainga Ora's many projects will all contribute,” she says.
New dwellings
Last year more than 16,500 new dwellings were consented in the Auckland region, beating the record set in 2019 by 1400 new dwellings. The pace of construction is noteworthy, says Tracy, and notes that this is an achievement by the building industry and council's planning and consent teams.
“Auckland will continue to be a desirable place to come and live – not just because of the natural beauty of the area but also for the potential economic benefits for people who move here,” continues Tracy.
“And that means that Auckland will continue to grow and always have people who want to get into housing here.
“That growth requires the council to keep on top of the city's infrastructure needs, both building more and making sure that what we have already is fit for purpose.”
Whau Local Board Chair Kay Thomas agrees.
“Ensuring that the council is on top of the infrastructure needs required comes at a price. It requires significant investment and comprehensive asset renewal programmes to keep up with demand.
“From local improvements to regional projects, it's vital that we have a plan to meet the demands that will be put on us in this unique set of circumstances,” she says.
Plan
“The council has a plan to deliver and finance this investment in its 10-year budget and this is out for consultation until 22 March,” says Councillor Mullholland.
“Please go online and make a submission - your views make the difference when it comes to decision making.”
Have your say at akhaveyoursay.nz/recoverybudget until 22 March. You can still have your say online during Alert Level 3.
