Services In Statutory Planning

CATO BOLAM has a specialist team of resource planners. The company has extensive information and knowledge of district and regional plans and the Resource Management Act (RMA)

Planning Advice
CATO BOLAM planners are able to advise whether a particular development proposal is or is likely to be possible under the various statutory plans, and the RMA. Most often, our advice will be to work within the various plans, which have been carefully prepared to ensure sustainable management of the environment. However, at times there will be proposals which do not meet standard requirements, but which will achieve good environmental outcomes. In such cases, CATO BOLAM is able to offer advice regarding the best way to pursue such proposals.

Plan Changes
CATO BOLAM has extensive experience in statutory plan development and plan changes. Skills available include the ability to identify issues or new initiatives which may be the basis for necessary changes. As necessary, this can be followed by the consideration of alternatives, identification of objectives and policies and the drafting of new plan provisions.

Land Use Consents
CATO BOLAM is able to prepare and/or process a wide range of land use consent applications, in all residential, commercial, industrial and rural areas. The company has access to the latest case law and legislation changes, and has expertise in processes relating to notification/non-notification, consultation with affected parties, including Iwi, discussions with Council staff and the giving of evidence at Council hearings and at the Environment Court. Most of our planning staff have had experience working for Councils, and are familiar with Council procedures.

Subdivision Consents
CATO BOLAM specialises in innovative residential, rural and coastal subdivision solutions. The company has highly-developed systems for the processing of subdivision consents.

Objections
Councils do not always get it right. CATO BOLAM is able to review resource consents and offer advice on whether the decision    or conditions of consent are fair and reasonable. If necessary, objection processes can be implemented to request a review of consents.

Peer Review
CATO BOLAM has senior-level expertise in planning and resource management, which can be valuable in assessing reports prepared by others, or the adequacy of resource consent processes.