Earlier this year, we examined the opportunities and risks the Planning Bill presents for developers in From Red Tape to Red Carpet: Do the RMA reforms streamline urban growth as promised? That article identified several concerns and called for improvements to the Bill as at its first reading.

The Environment Committee has now reported the Planning and Natural Environment Bills back to the House, recommending that both be passed with amendments. We provided a high-level overview of the Committee’s recommendations and an updated timeline for the transition to the new planning system in this article.

This sector-focused article explores the gains for the development sector secured through the Committee process, highlights the significant issues that remain unresolved, and identifies the practical questions developers need to consider as the Bill continues to progress towards becoming law.