Concerns about access to a planned residential development on a steep section of Potters Hill, Queenstown, have been raised during the second day of a resource consent hearing in the resort.
Developer Albatross QT Ltd has applied for consent to construct the 17-lot subdivision on the land above the Greenstone Terrace apartment complex on State Highway 6a, Frankton Rd.
Yesterday, radio journalist Steve Wilde - who owns an apartment at Greenstone Terrace - spoke out against the development on behalf of the Greenstone Terrace body corporate committee.
He said the proposed subdivision could not be safely connected to Frankton Rd - the main route into Queenstown - because of the steep gradient that would be required of any linking road off the hill.
Such a road would be hazardous in winter, particularly when ice was present, he said.
The road would also be private, meaning residents would have to grit the road or apply a de-icing agent in winter.
The development would also add to delays for traffic trying to turn on to Frankton Rd, and could led to deaths as frustrated motorists risked pulling out into oncoming traffic, he warned.
‘‘We have been saying for three years there are problems with the [existing] intersection and for three years we have been ignored. But today we tell you . . . the intersection will not work.''
Mr Wilde was among 46 people and groups to make submissions on Albatross QT's proposed development - all but one of them opposing the company's application.
Albatross QT lawyer Michael Garbett said Transit New Zealand had provided written approval for the development, meaning effects on access to Frankton Rd could be ‘‘disregarded''.
Lakes Environmental has recommended consent be granted.
Commissioners Trevor Shiels and Lyal Cocks reserved their decision at the end of yesterday's hearing.
