Response to comments regarding Sleepyhead appeal process

The following is a response from Waikato Regional Council Chair Russ Rimmington to comments made by the Waikato District Council mayor to the New Zealand Herald regarding the Sleepyhead appeals process.

“I am disappointed that the Mayor of Waikato District Council continues to publicly discuss matters that are before the Environment Court. Our council restricts its comments to ensure the judicial process is not put in jeopardy.

“I have full confidence in the staff and team working through aspects of the appeal for Waikato Regional Council.

“Our Chief Executive, Chris McLay, made contact with district council staff to hear first-hand of any issues there were in getting information from parties in a timely manner. That confirmed to him that the conversations to date continue to be constructive and there was still information being waited on from multiple parties, including Waikato District Council.

“District council staff also agreed to host additional meetings to progress discussions, and apparently these have recently happened.

“I understand that staff from all parties have reached agreement in principle on a number of appeal matters, but not all. Staff are keeping councillors appraised of progress.

“I too am hopeful that agreement can be reached between parties and court action is not required.

“While our appeal matters might be trivialised as nit-picking, we do not apologise for an appeal that seeks to ensure any new developments in the region, outside of existing district plans, enable a quality community environment that will endure into the future. We have a duty to ensure any district council plans are consistent with the Waikato Regional Policy Statement to ensure things connect regionally.

“Waikato Regional Council has not opposed the factory development and all necessary consents have been granted that enable construction to go ahead. The only matters still under appeal relate to the proposed residential zone.

“As a council we want to be future focused and ensure there are enduring, quality decisions being made for the local community and our region. There are of course some big positives that will come from the creation of jobs in the region, which we welcome.”