We are experiencing delays in processing resource consent applications due to staffing challenges and the increasing complexity of applications.
Planning, consenting and compliance
We are delivering regulatory services (planning, consents and compliance) to sustainably manage our natural resources, and to build confidence and trust in our work.
Our plans, strategies and bylaws provide a framework of work programmes and regulations to help us manage Canterbury's natural and physical resources, setting out what we need to do and how to ensure our region runs as smoothly as it can.
How are we tracking on our Levels of Service?
To achieve this level of service we will:
- 34.1 Progress a review of the Canterbury Regional Policy Statement
How are we doing: On 2 December 2022, a significant milestone was reached for the development of the regulatory framework, with Te Rōpū Tuia approving the Tuia Protocol – Partnership Arrangements for Phase 1 of the integrated planning programme. The delay in confirming the governance arrangements means, however, that reviewing the Regional Policy Statement in 2024 remains at risk.
To achieve this level of service we will:
- 34.2 Work collaboratively with the region’s district and city councils to implement and give effect to the Regional Policy Statement
How are we doing: Our work with the region’s district and city councils to implement and give effect to the Regional Policy Statement is on track.
For 2022/23, 35.2 is not measured (Meet all requirements of the RMA for processing for consent applications, for example in relation to making decisions publicly notifying consents, or requests for further information)
To achieve this level of service we will:
- 35.1 Process resource consent applications in a timely manner
How are we doing: The high volume of complex consent applications, along with staffing challenges, have resulted in delays in processing. See key initiatives below for more information.
To achieve this level of service we will:
- 35.3 Monitor priority consents, as identified in the Compliance Five-year Plan, to ensure compliance with consent conditions
- 35.4 Provide an incident response service to ensure the effects of pollution incidents are kept to a minimum kept to a minimum
How are we doing: Monitoring of high priority consents and provision of incidence response is tracking slightly behind the target.
How are we doing on our key initiatives?
How are we doing: Although there is still a backlog of consent applications awaiting processing, progress has been made, with new staff recruited, and our pre-application advice service restarted. We have published new comprehensive guidance on rural wastewater systems, including when consent is required and how to apply for it, and developed advice and a new application form for those requiring consent for intensive winter grazing.
How are we doing: Covid-19 and challenges in recruiting staff have impacted this area of our work. We publish annual snapshots of consent monitoring activity and our response to environmental pollution incidents.
If you are aware of an environmental incident that seems time critical, please call our incident line on 0800 765 588 (24 hours), or report it using the Snap Send Solve app from your mobile phone.
Recent highlights and updates
This Supreme Court case will give us and the community clarity on the matter, which has been before the Courts for some time.
Find out about the consent applications from South Island Resource Recovery Limited for a proposed waste to energy plant.
Are you concerned that an activity may be damaging our environment? Use the Snap Send Solve app to report an issue.
A Court of Appeal decision around water bottling may affect the way we manage water in Canterbury.
We've published new guidance to help people understand wastewater treatment systems.
We have responded to multiple chemical spills at a site in Woolston, with help from other agencies.
On 1 November, new intensive winter grazing rules came into force. Find out more about these new rules.
Illegal rubbish pits can affect soil and water quality - and are costly to clean up.
Rubbish dumping is a large and costly problem, so we’re asking people to do the right thing with their rubbish.
Alliance Smithfield meat plant has been sentenced to pay $57,000 for unlawfully discharging a contaminant near Waitarakao Washdyke Lagoon.