Fletcher Building : Oruarangi Rd Special Housing Area approvals welcomed

Auckland, 20 May 2016 - Today, Fletcher Living's proposed residential development at Oruarangi Road Mangere has been granted planning consent by Auckland Council. The application for subdivision land use has been granted and the proposed plan variation was approved subject to modifications.

General Manager Ken Lotu-Iiga said Fletcher Living is working through the decision report and while it is too early to comment on the conditions it was good to have both rulings.

'We remain committed to delivering a residential community with quality environmental outcomes that recognises and is respectful of its relationship with the history and existing community. We know there is local opposition to developing this land as was evidenced through the SHA process. With these rulings in place, we look forward to further engaging with relevant stakeholders to enable increased understanding of our plans. We want to progress dialogue relating to our vision for this development.'

Comprehensive preparations and planning has already been undertaken to protect the culturally significant geological features of the areas. Fletcher Living has been in consultation with recognised Maori leaders who have the mandate to represent their iwi.

A variety of impact reports have been commissioned and comprehensive protection plans are in place including:

• Creating a buffer zone to protect the Otuataua Stonefields Historic Reserve on the western boundary of the development (Approximately one third of land in the development area will be public space.)

• Protecting lava caves in our development as part of this buffer zone

• Protecting significant native trees, the historic Wallace homestead and other significant landmarks and geological features within the development

• Many historic stonewalls will be protected although some will be rebuilt and some removed

• Protecting public access to the adjacent reserve

In addition, protocols and plans are in place for responding to any materials of cultural or archaeological significance found during the construction of our housing development.

Fletcher Living is undertaking a comprehensive review of today's decisions and the associated modifications. This will lead to further activity in response to the decision.

ENDS