An artist’s impression of the Taylor Street site
Waipā’s District Plan is being put to the test again with an application for a non-complying activity in Taylor Street, Cambridge heading for a hearing later this month.
The application, lodged in February this year by Warren and Wendy Hodges, seeks to establish a five-unit compact housing development on one lot in the leafy Cambridge East street.
While the site is in the residential zone and subject to the Compact Housing overlay, it does not meet the minimum 2000m² requirement for compact housing.
Council staff considered the application and approved it with conditions. But given adjacent properties could be affected, a limited notification notice was sent to four neighbours.
Another angle on the proposed development
Submissions to the proposal closed on July 6 with two of the neighbours opposing the application. It was then referred to the Hearings Panel as council planning staff do not have delegated authority to decide on notified applications where submissions have been lodged in opposition.
One neighbour said the development would have a “major impact” on their quality of living while the other says the application breaks all council rules and shows a “total disregard” for adjoining residents.
Both point to past flooding issues as a reason to deny the application.
Each of the five three and two-bedroom dwellings has an internal garage with another park in front of the garage.
The council’s Hearings Panel will consider the application in Te Awamutu on August 19.
