A controversial proposal to open up space for 1500 new homes in Upper Hutt’s southern hills has been axed as the council and developers examine a new solution.
The Silverstream Spur land, seen from County Lane looking across Fergusson Dr.
Upper Hutt residents have made sure their opposition to a controversial land swap between the council and developers has been heard loud and clear in discussions about the city’s future direction. In 2016, Upper Hutt City council agreed to explore swapping the Silverstream Spur, about 35 hectares of forest at the entrance to the city, for 134ha of land in Pinehaven owned by the Guildford Timber Company so that the company could build up to 1500 new homes in the city s southern hills. However, over the past five years many locals have raised concerns about the impact the decision could have on wildlife and the community.
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The Upper Hutt City Council is examining a proposal swap Silverstream Spur in a deal with developers who could put 1000 new homes on the land.
A proposed land swap between a council and developers could come down to a decision between houses or birds. Forest & Bird are calling on the Upper Hutt City Council to keep a 35-hectare block on Silverstream Spur as a wildlife corridor and reserve. The council is due to consult this year on the proposed exchange of the spur for 134 ha block of nearby land in Pinehaven with the Guildford Timber Company. Guildford wants to build about 1000 new homes on the spur.