Housing pressures

BUILDING and Construction Minister Dr Nick Smith says he cannot rule out the Government extending its special housing legislation when it expires in just over two years.

Dr Smith told the Otago Daily Times the issue would have to be addressed next year.

‘‘The appropriate thing would be that whoever is in government in 2018 would reassess progress, consult with key councils like Queenstown’s, and make a decision as to whether further provision was required.’’

The district’s rapid growth meant the council had to identify new areas for residential development, and he was ‘‘very supportive’’ of the Queenstown Lakes District Council’s proposal to apply the special housing mechanism to the Ladies Mile.

Last week the council decided to seek public feedback on including the Ladies Mile as ‘‘category 2’’ land in its special housing policy.

If it approves the move at its August meeting, it would open the way for new housing in an area widely regarded as Queenstown’s rural gateway.

Dr Smith said if the council did not create additional areas, housing pressures on families and workers would only get worse.