The government is considering a review of the Public Works Act which has recommended lowering the thresholds for acquiring land. The current rules require a high standard of national and regional significance before allowing the land acquisition to take place.
By making this process simpler, the infrastructure projects will enable a lift in productivity as it removes red tape.
The government mentioned this is for critical public infrastructure. Depending on how the rules are drafted, it could be hard to define what critical is limited to. The main aim is for ease of replacing old pipes and to increase the capacity of schools, hospitals, houses, roads and renewable energy.
Five members of an expert advisory panel were leading the review and consulting with other stakeholders.
A policy decision is expected to be announced at the end of the year, with a view of the Amendment Bill being introduced in mid 2025.
Government release:
https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/removing-roadblocks-building-infrastructure
Public Works Act Review:
https://www.linz.govt.nz/our-work/projects/public-works-act-review
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