The Queenstown Smart Growth Initiative (QSGI) has been formed to fight the Ridgeburn proposal, which was referred to the fast-track approvals process by Minister for Infrastructure Chris Bishop last October.
The referral came after developer Kurt Gibbons’ first application for the huge subdivision, on the late Alan Hamilton’s Morven Ferry Rd farm, was deemed ‘‘incomplete/non-compliant’’ last June.
QSGI spokeswoman and Morven Ferry Rd resident Hanna Pettit said in a statement the proposal’s substantive application, lodged by Mr Gibbons in March, was the subject of growing community concern.
‘‘There is no question our region needs more homes, and the fast-track legislation is already proving to be a useful tool to support this, but where that growth is located matters enormously for the long-term wellbeing and sustainability of our communities,’’ Ms Pettit said.
If approved, Ridgeburn would increase traffic and infrastructure congestion, and negate the economic and social benefits of having the much-needed homes in the area, she said.
‘‘Our experts are confident in their methodology as many are also working on other fast-track applications on behalf of their clients.
‘‘The QSGI wants to ensure the fast-track expert panel has the full picture before any decision is made.’’
She said the group’s community volunteers had contributed significant hours, but a thorough and credible submission required input from other professionals, which it could no longer absorb alone.
QSGI is calling on residents who share its concerns to support it financially.
‘‘This is not a small housing project.
‘‘It is a development that would have a substantial and lasting impact on the wider community, as well as Arrow Junction, by eroding the area’s outstanding natural landscape through unfettered urban sprawl and the traffic congestion this ensures.
‘‘We owe it to current and future residents to ensure the decision is made on the basis of clear facts and rigorous evidence.’’
