OBJECTIONS TO ZONING

Press, Volume CII, Issue 30278, 2 November 1963, Page 21

OBJECTIONS TO ZONING

Mr Kealy’s Comment

Parties concerned in zoning appeals should ensure that ail persons likely to object to any changes in zoning were notified and given the right to be heard, said the chairman of the Town and Country Planning Appeal Board (Mr J. W. Kealy, S.M.) He made this comment during the hearing of an appeal by John Oliver Cochrane against a decision of the Riccarton Borough Council refusing permission to erect a service station at 74-76 Riccarton road.

Appearing for the council, Mr E. I. White had suggested that residents in the area should be given the opportunity of objecting if the board proposed to allow the appeal.

“It is ridiculous to suggest that this board should at a future date have to hear objections which should be heard now,” said Mr Kealy. Mr Kealy said it was obvious that anyone likely to object should be notified of hearings and be given the opportunity of placing objections before the board.

“Do you seriously think that if this board grants this appeal, it should make a special trip to Christchurch later to hear further objections?” he asked Mr White.

The board operated at a very considerable expense to the country, and every effort should be made by all parties to reduce any excess charges, he said. Counsel would assist by having all evidence ready for the sittings.

“I suggest a bit of foresight should be used,” said Mr Kealy.