TOWN PLANNING

Evening Star, Issue 20321, 1 November 1929, Page 13

TOWN PLANNING

REGIONAL SCHEMES PROPOSED PREPARATION TIME EXTENDED [From Quit Pxsxjauektart Reporter.] WELLINGTON, October 31. The original Town Planning Act. 1926, imposed on borough councils in New Zealand the obligation of completing a town planning scheme before January, 1930, but that time is approaching, and an amendment of the Act introduced by Air de la Perrelle (Minister of Internal Affairs) proposes to extend the time. Under the authority of the Governor in Council am extension is to be permitted if it appears that the local authority, using all reasonable diligence, will be unable to complete the scheme within the time already fixed. Town planning schemes involving consideration well into the future must necessarily cover areas beyond the existing boundaries of the local authorities, and the amending Bill introduces machinery for planning schemes extending beyond urban areas. The measure also seeks to empower local authorities, including county councils which have decided to prepare a planning scheme, to refuse consent to the carrying out of buildings or other works which would be in contravention of the scheme when completed, or would be in contravention of town planning principles, or constitute an interference with the amenities of neighbouring local authorities. These authorities are empowered to unite in preparation of regional planning schemes and to set up regional planning committees, representative of each authority, including (if desired) associate members having expert knowledge.