By Torika Tokalau of Local Democracy Reporting
A strategy to help support one of Auckland’s fastest growing regions with housing and its thriving farming industry has been approved by Auckland Council.
The southern rural areas, which includes the Franklin Ward, is expected to see an increase of 89,900 people, 37,500 households, and 16,500 jobs by 2052.
Auckland Council recently approved the new Southern Rural Strategy, which supports the region to accommodate its growing population, while enabling industries like farming and food production to thrive.
“The southern rural area is expected to account for approximately 15% of Auckland’s overall population growth over the next 30 years,” Franklin ward councillor Andy Baker said.
The area was one of the New Zealand’s primary food production regions, with abundant natural resources and some of the most productive land in New Zealand.
“It’s strategic location, close to airports, seaport and key export markets, helps to further cultivate these industries.”
In a statement, Baker said the strategy provides direction for where housing choices, industries and employment opportunities will grow, “in a way that supports the area to thrive economically and ecologically”.
It includes strengthening the role of Pukekohe and Waiuku as rural service towns, focuses growth in existing urbanised settlements and avoid growth outside settlements, and minimises urban growth where it could have negative impacts on rural production and industries
The strategy also makes sure there is sufficient infrastructure to support new development, support safe access for residential and rural production users with transport and access needs, and celebrates the Māori and Pākehā heritage of towns, villages and other areas
The strategy covers the full Franklin ward.
It also includes some rural land from the Howick, Manurewa, and Papakura local board areas.
The strategy does not cover the area’s quickest growing towns – Drury, Ōpaheke and Pukekohe – which already have community-backed plans to guide their growth.
Consultation on the Southern Rural Strategy took place in October to December last year.
Deputy chair of Auckland’s Policy and Planning Committee, Angela Dalton said the strategy supports the southern rural area to grow well.
“This is a vibrant region, where traditional industries thrive alongside emerging sectors,” Dalton said.
“The strategy is about balanced growth, that minimises the impact on the environment while improving housing choices and socially connected communities.”
By making the most of existing infrastructure, and focusing on projects that deliver multiple benefits, council was helping set up the region for a resilient and sustainable future, she said.
