Submission 3: Draft Auckland Plan

Malls and Liveable Cities Probably the most sigificant issue that was debated during the various plan changes that accompanied the Local Government Auckland Amendment Act (2004) was over the planning for Malls. Painted by many as the harbinger of death to local shopping (as witnessed in Takapuna after the construction of its shopping mall, then at Milford after K Mart, then Glenfield’s mall experience, and big box shopping at Link Drive, which was eclipsed by Albany Mega Market….), malls are seen by many as the leading cause of failure of local high streets – with their mix of local shops and local social services, cafes and suchlike. Many point to the vibrant nature of high street shopping in much of downtown Wellington, and note the absence of mall developments. The question is, what is the Auckland Plan for Mall led developments in the growth areas? This is an omission which needs attention.

Submission 3: Provide an urban development policy for Malls in identified growth areas which will encourage the development of an active village or town centre “main street” environment.