New subdivision will help city regeneration
Opposition to a major new housing development in Christchurch is finally being heard in the Environment Court, three years after it was first proposed.
A consent application by Australian supermarket giant Woolworths to build
250 new homes is going through the court rather than being ruled on by Christchurch City Council.
The Environment Court hearing last week heard evidence from several witnesses regarding the resource consent application to develop the 17-hectare North Halswell Key Activity Centre.
Woolworths bought the site on Halswell Rd opposite the Aidanfield subdivision for
$27 million from three owners in 2017. It said its intention was developing a mixed use commercial and residential development, anchored by a Countdown supermarket.
Woolworths lodged its original application for the development of the North Halswell Key Activity Centre that December, and it was publicly notified in October
2018. Eleven submissions were received, of which six were in opposition to the development.
In its legal submissions to the court, Woolworths stated the development reflects its dedication to the ‘‘regeneration’’ of Christchurch, and will contribute to the social and economic wellbeing of communities in the south-west of the city.
Along with 250 housing units, the centre will feature a supermarket, cinema, medical centre, childcare centre, gym and retail outlets.
According to the proposal, specified roads and intersections will be upgraded to accommodate the increase in traffic.
Woolworths made some refinements to its proposal in response to the opposition.
‘‘Woolworths has extensive experience in developing supermarkets and retail around the country – it knows what works. It also has experience in developing successful local centres to support residential development.’’
Woolworths Group is one of the largest supermarket operators in New Zealand and runs the Countdown, Fresh Choice and Super Value supermarkets.
Halswell Residents’ Association chairman John Bennett said its committee is yet to discuss the development to form an official view. The Environment Court hearing has been adjourned due to availability of witnesses.