All power to super central Auckland?

Waitakere Mayor Bob Harvey’s comments that a super-city will favour central Auckland are being backed by some of those in the urban development industry.

Director of Planning Consultants Jan Crawford says the proposed new structure will give power to those already in power.

“The way the Government reacted, it’s really concentrating power to the Auckland City Council. I think Bob is right in the short term, though maybe not in the long term.”

Crawford says Brisbane has a similar model to the Auckland proposal and the main focus has been speeding up large infrastructure projects.

She believes that this is part of the reason for creating a super city, especially with issues like public transport and waterfront development.

“Most of the funding will go into the electrifying of the railway lines which will increase the importance of the city centre’s [Britomart],” says Crawford.

While the railway lines will be electric, there won’t be any new railway lines, she adds.

Property developer Robb Noble agrees public transport has to be the main focus for Auckland in the coming years.

“Over the last 30 years it hasn’t gone well. They spent most of the funding on motorways.”

Noble says one council could break up the factionalism that has hindered Auckland’s decision making.

Crawford says one major problem could be the planned local boards struggling to be heard by the dominant council.

She warns while big ideas will go ahead, simple projects like fixing a footpath in Henderson will be delayed.

“That’s where the public could get disillusioned and stop voting.”