East Auckland residents are being urged to submit feedback on a proposed residential housing development that will see 87 units built on a site near Half Moon Bay Marina.
Developer HND HMB Ltd wants to build the homes on the 1.4-hectare corner section at 3 Pigeon Mountain Road currently occupied by the Stand Tu Maia (Stand for Children) charity.
As the charity’s buildings are leaking, out of warranty and need replacing, its board made the decision to sell the property and plans to relocate to Manukau next year.
The property borders Ara-Tai Road and Compass Point Way. The development will have a single access point, off Compass Point Way.
Several hundred people turned out to Bucklands Beach Yacht Club on October 19 for a public meeting on the development chaired by Pakuranga MP Simeon Brown and organised by several local residents and ratepayers’ associations.
Allan Sargeant, deputy chairperson of Compass Point Way Residents Association, said the group is not opposed to development on the site.
“We accept that there will be over time, but not at this scale, and I urge you all to have your say through the submission process.”
Sargeant said the association has concerns relating to traffic and parking, stormwater, rubbish collection, access for residents’ cars, delivery vehicles and emergency services, and pedestrian safety.
Half Moon Bay Residents and Ratepayers Association chairperson Keith Ingram said there’s already pressure on local schools and roads.
“I can imagine seeing a school walking bus 100 metres long trying to cross some of our roads in amongst all that traffic. It’s just not going to work.”
Ingram said he’s concerned the development may involve Kainga Ora and include public housing.
Howick ward councillor Maurice Williamson explained the process around public submissions on the resource consent application and said the development would be the most contentious he’s seen in his more than 30 years in politics.
The developer told the Times they appreciate the community’s concerns about how many units are planned for the site.
“With our site being 1.4 hectares, we’ve thoughtfully designed the development to align with the goals of the Mixed Housing Suburban Zone, as outlined by the Auckland Unitary Plan.
“Our proposal includes a variety of housing types and sizes, ensuring a diverse community that can accommodate different needs.”
The developer also says they understand concerns about increased traffic and parking.
“Each unit is designed to include one or two parking spaces, depending on its size, to help ease congestion.
“We’ve worked with traffic engineers to thoroughly assess the project’s impact on safety and ensure it meets all necessary standards.
“Our goal is to create a harmonious environment that prioritises the well-being of all residents.”
Regarding the impact on local schools, the developer says they share the community’s concerns.
“We believe the Ministry of Education is dedicated to addressing these challenges proactively, especially in areas experiencing growth in line with the Unitary Plan.
“We’re hopeful they will respond effectively to meet the needs of our evolving community.”
The developer says they want to reassure the community the project isn’t associated with Kainga Ora or any social housing initiatives.
“Our commitment is to create a vibrant community that offers a range of housing options for diverse families, while respecting the values and concerns of the existing neighbourhood.”
People have until November 11 to submit their view on the development’s resource consent application and they can do so online here.
