The long process to determine Dunedin's development rules is set to continue tomorrow when submitters have their say on the rules that will govern earthworks.
Dunedin City Council planner Paul Freeland outlined the issues in a report to be tabled at a Second Generation Dunedin City District Plan (2GP) hearing set to run for three days.
The proposed plan classifies earthworks as small or large scale, with smaller scale earthworks to proceed as permitted activities, while larger scale earthworks require resource consent as restricted discretionary activities.
Of the 106 original submissions made on the topic, 48 were in support of the plans and 58 either sought amendments or opposed the provisions.
A "significant number'' of submissions wanted earthworks rules to be made more permissive for farming activities, either through exemptions in definitions or through performance standards. Amendments sought include exemptions for maintenance for farm activities, farm tracks and silage pits.
Mr Freeland recommended the submissions largely be declined but called for the definition of earthworks to be changed to make clear earthworks required for the maintenance of farm tracks, private roads, dams, farmyards, farm service areas and fences were not subject to 2GP rules.
In outlining the background, Mr Freeland said earthworks could affect the city's visual amenity, compromise areas valued for their natural character, make areas more vulnerable to flooding and contribute to erosion.
