Protection plans for Balmoral and Sandringham Town Centres

Auckland City Council is proposing a district plan change so that the character and heritage of Balmoral and Sandringham town centres will be protected. Eden Albert Councillor Glenda Fryer says "This is a positive move in helping retain the character of these older town centres. Balmoral and Sandringham are the first areas to be recognised and their status put out for public consultation."

The plan includes controls on the removal or alteration of identified character buildings and the construction of new buildings bigger than existing structures. The council will consult with residents in Balmoral and Sandringham before drawing up a draft variation.

Mt Albert Historical Society acting chairman Rendell McIntosh welcomes the move. "It's absolutely essential the uniqueness of the houses in those areas be protected." He says he has discovered many 'hidden gems' of old and architecturally significant houses.

Cr Fryer says that areas already protected from inappropriate development are Ellerslie, Eden Valley, Grey Lynn, Kingsland, Upper Symonds Street and West Lynn.

For more information contact Cr Fryer on 638 7712

Posted Tue 18 Sep 2007