Streamlining RMA Approvals for Land Transport Projects: A study of delays in major roading projects
February 2003, Ref. ME435
This study was undertaken in response to concerns expressed by the business community and others that important roading projects are being subjected to unacceptable delays, and that the Resource Management Act is a significant causal factor.
Availability:
- Download PDF (917 KB)
- Printed copies free from the Ministry for the Environment (email orders@mfe.govt.nz).
Contents
Foreword
Executive Summary
- Introduction
1.1 Background
1.2 The impetus for this report
1.3 What are ‘unacceptable’ delays?
1.4 What sources of information are used for this report?
1.5 Structure of the report - What does a Roading Project Entail?
2.1 Types of RMA approvals
2.2 Description of a typical major roading project - Case Studies
3.1 The four roading projects studied
3.2 Timelines for the case studies
3.3 Discussion of case studies and timelines - What Causes Delays?
4.1 Generic factors contributing to delays
4.2 Stakeholders’ views on what causes delays
4.3 Stakeholder views on public participation and environmental outcomes - Analysis of Delays and Possible Solutions
5.1 Designation procedures
5.2 The ‘in-principle’ approval of a road, versus other solutions
5.3 The number of resource consents required
5.4 Applicant and consent authority approaches to approvals
5.5 Projects delayed in the Environment Court
5.6 The level of project detail
5.7 Outline plans
5.8 Public consultation, including iwi consultation
5.9 Land acquisition and RMA processes
5.10 Local government reform
5.11 Summary: evaluation of options for change - Conclusions and Recommendations
6.1 Provide a better public policy framework for decisions on major land transport projects
6.2 Reduce the number of hearings
6.3 Develop and adopt best practice in a number of areas
Appendix 1: Types of RMA approvals, and procedures that apply
Appendix 2: The case studies
Glossary
