A coalition of Christchurch residents’ associations has called on city councillors to reconsider the recommendations made by the Independent Hearings Panel on housing intensification in the city.

The Combined Residents’ Association expressed concerns that the current recommendations fail to adequately reflect the unique needs of Christchurch, urging councillors to make improvements to ensure the plan better serves the community.

The residents’ groups support much of the proposed plan but are disappointed that the IHP rejected several key social and environmental enhancements.

These enhancements were intended to make the plan more suitable for Christchurch’s specific circumstances. For example, the panel dismissed the idea of sunlight access protection, which residents argue is crucial for maintaining quality of life in densified areas, especially given the city’s climate and geographical location.

The residents also raised concerns about the panel’s definition of walkable catchments around commercial centres, where high-density development would be permitted.

They believe the catchments are too large, resulting in impractical walking distances for residents, particularly for those with young children or carrying shopping.

The groups have asked councillors to review these catchments to ensure they are more manageable for everyday use.

Another point of contention is the IHP’s rejection of financial contributions from developers for tree canopy cover, a measure that had received widespread community support.

The residents argue that Christchurch already has a poor level of tree coverage compared to other large cities, and they believe this issue must be addressed to improve the city’s green spaces.

Concerns were also raised about the city’s infrastructure, with the residents highlighting that some areas may not be able to support increased housing density without significant investment.

They are advocating for either halting intensification in these areas or ensuring that developers fund the necessary infrastructure upgrades before their projects are approved.

The residents also spoke about the need to protect Riccarton Bush, one of Christchurch’s most historic natural areas.

They believe that the proposed building heights around the bush could harm the environment and the views of this significant site and are urging councillors to reinstate protective measures.

The Combined Residents’ Association pointed out that the IHP’s recommendations align with the 2021 intensification legislation, but recent changes in government policy allow for more flexibility in housing density standards.

They are asking councillors to take a more considered approach to medium-density development, ensuring that any intensification aligns with the city’s actual needs.

The deadline for councillors to make decisions is September 4th, and the Combined Residents’ Association is urging them to carefully consider the long-term impacts of the IHP’s recommendations.

The letter, supported by numerous residents’ associations across Christchurch.