Accolades for Greater Wellington's consents team

Posted on 18 June 2009

Greater Wellington Regional Council's consents team has been recognised for its work in achieving a high level of compliance with statutory timeframes for processing resource consent applications.

The Environment Ministry's two yearly Environment Resource Management Act (RMA) survey of local authorities shows that the Council was in a top group of eight councils processing 99% or more of consent applications within statutory timeframes.

During the 2007/08 financial year Greater Wellington's consents team processed 703 resource consent applications to a decision, an increase of 10% on the previous year.

In a letter to Council Chair Fran Wilde, Environment Minister Nick Smith praised Greater Wellington's "high level of compliance and efficient systems."

Mr Smith said the timely processing of applications was critical. "Your council's excellent performance ensures greater productivity and makes a difference to your community and our nation."

Greater Wellington Environment Management Division Manager Nigel Corry said the survey was a good way for the Council to see where it was doing well and where it could improvements.

"For the last five years our consents staff have processed between 97% and 99% of consent applications within statutory timeframes. It is great to receive recognition from the Government for this achievement.

"Implementing the RMA is about enabling people to use and develop our natural resources in a way that's environmentally sustainable. While that's not always easy, our staff are committed to making the RMA work for customers and for the environment.