The fast-growing Western Bay of Plenty region hopes to secure one of the Gevernment’s sought-after regional deals to help deliver 40,000 more homes and 35,000 new jobs.
Regional and city deals are a new initiative that allows the Government and local aurthorities to create long-term agreements.
The programme unlocks funding and resource opportunities to support councils making improvements in their region, such as to roading, infrastructure and the supply of quality housing.
However, a Labour MP said without funding the deals were “pretty s*****” and just regulatory and rule changes for certain councils.
The Western Bay of Plenty sub-region plans to submit its proposal this month.
The Tauranga City Council, the Western Bay of Plenty District Council, the Bay of Plenty Regional Council tangata whenua and economic development agency Priority One worked together on the plan.
The deal, if approved, is expected to deliver 40,000 houses, 35,000 new jobs and maintain annual economic growth at 4.6%.
Priority growth areas for the region include Tauriko West, a new community with up to 4000 homes, and Te Kāinga and Te Tumu in the east which could offer up to 6000 homes when complete.