Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Local Area Plans (LAP) Programme

1. What are Local Area Plans (LAPs)?

Hastings is growing fast, and that is expected to continue over the next 10 to 30 years. As our population grows, so does the pressure on housing and space. Local Area Plans (LAPs) are place-based plans that strategically bring together ideas for housing, infrastructure, amenities, and community needs to support our growth through residential intensification. The LAP’s ensure that medium-density residential development occurs in a planned way within the existing community, and that the region’s economically important growing land is protected.

2. Why are Local Area Plans needed?

With Hastings' population projected to increase from 91,900 in 2023 to as many as 121,800 by 2053, LAPs are needed to manage growth responsibly. They help balance housing demand, infrastructure upgrades, and the preservation of natural resources like fertile soils, while also enhancing liveability for residents.

3. Which areas are included in the initial LAP programme?

The current LAP programme focuses on four key areas within Hastings:

• North LAP: Residential intensification near Cornwall Park and the central business district
• Hospital LAP: Housing developments near Hawke’s Bay Fallen Soldiers Memorial Hospital and Kaweka Private Hospital
• West LAP: Mixed-use development along Heretaunga Street West, blending residential and commercial spaces
• East LAP: Redevelopment of commercial and industrial zones into mixed-use residential areas.
• Additional LAP’s will be developed for other urban areas in the district in due course.

4. How were these areas chosen?

Based on previous information including the Heretaunga Plains Urban Development Strategy (HPUDS) and Hastings Medium Density Housing Strategy, these areas are seen as ideal for residential intensification due to their proximity to key services, employment hubs, and existing infrastructure.

5. What will happen after these LAPs are completed?

The LAP’s will be completed, following community engagement, in mid 2025. The next phase will be the implementation of elements of each plan which, subject to funding via the Annual Plan, is expected to commence in late 2025.

The planning of further Local Area Plans will follow, ensuring that sustainable growth is managed across the entire district.

6. How do Local Area Plans align with existing planning frameworks?

The LAPs build on existing strategies including the Heretaunga Plains Urban Development Strategy (HPUDS) and follow national policy direction, including the National Policy Statement on Urban Development (NPS-UD). This ensures they are aligned with best practices for urban growth, sustainability, and efficient use of land and resources.

7. What is meant by ‘residential intensification’?

Residential intensification refers to increasing the housing density in certain areas. This might include building more homes on sections, for example townhouses or apartments, to make better use of infrastructure in urban areas.

8. What specific topics can residents provide feedback on?

Residents are encouraged to provide feedback on four key areas:

Housing: density levels, neighbourhood features to keep

Amenity open spaces: parks and green space use, amount of open spaces, improvements

Transport: parking, roading, public transport and traffic

Three Waters: current service levels, knowledge of and willingness to use on-section water storage and re-use solutions

9. How will community feedback be used?

Community feedback will be used to refine and shape final Local Area Plans so they reflect the needs, priorities, and aspirations of local residents. This feedback is vital for creating plans that support vibrant, connected, and liveable communities.

10. How can I participate in this programme?

The survey is open until December 20 here: www.silresearch.co.nz/hastings

11. Is participation in this programme important?

Yes! Community participation ensures the growth of Hastings is shaped by the people who live and work here. Your feedback helps to guide decisions on housing, infrastructure, and services that will affect Hastings’ future.

12. What is the ‘centres approach’?

The centres approach, guided by the National Policy Statement on Urban Development, focuses on placing housing near employment hubs, commercial centres and community services. This helps reduce commute times, promotes sustainability, and supports the efficient use of urban land.

13. What is the timeline for preparing these LAPs?

The survey runs until December 20, after which feedback will be analysed. The Local Area Plans are expected to be finalised in mid-2025. Following this, planning for other urban areas in Hastings District will commence.

14. What infrastructure improvements are being considered in these plans?

Infrastructure considerations include ensuring sustainable water supply, stormwater management, and wastewater systems are in place, along with transport options, that support population growth.

15. How will these LAPs benefit my community?

The LAPs aim to ensure that growth is managed sustainably, helping to create more connected, sustainable, and vibrant communities for residents to enjoy.

16. What happens if I don’t participate in the programme?

While participation is voluntary, it is highly encouraged. Without community input, the plans may not fully reflect local needs and preferences, which is why your feedback is so important.

18. Will the LAPs impact the character of existing neighbourhoods?

The LAPs aim to ensure residential intensification happens in a way that complements and enhances the character of each area. Community feedback will help guide how this is achieved.

19. Where can I find more detailed information about each LAP?

Detailed information about each LAP area, including maps and specific proposals, is available at https://lap.myvoicemychoice.co.nz/. You can explore each plan area in detail and provide your feedback directly through the platform.

20. Who is leading the programme?

While the LAPs are being prepared by Council’s growth and development team, the survey is being led by independent research agency SIL to ensure a thorough, unbiased approach to gathering community feedback.

21. Will these plans address environmental concerns?

The LAPs include strategies to manage growth in a way that protects natural resources, such as fertile soils, and promotes sustainable land and water use.

22. What if my area isn’t included in this round of LAPs?

If your area is not part of the current LAPs, you can still give us your feedback – especially if an area is of particular significance to you. We do recognise that the ‘look and feel’ of all parts of Hastings impacts on all of our residents. Local Area Plans for other urban areas within Hastings District will follow.

23. What’s the next step after the programme?

After the survey closes on December 20, the feedback will be reviewed and used to refine the LAPs. The final plans will then be presented to Council for approval and eventually implemented to guide future development.

24. Who can I contact for more information?

Contact Customer Services