Compromise reached over Arch Hill Bunnings

Photo / Brett Phibbs

The Environment Court has just released a decision on the case being brought by Arch Hill residents opposing a big new Bunnings in their suburb.

Residents have won some concessions, including ensuring one end of Dean St off King St is not used by Bunnings.

Traffic management plans have also been reinstated in the decision.

Other modifications have been made to trading hours during the summer and mitigation of construction effects.

The residents, Norfolk Powell Properties and Kindercare Learning Centres took a case against Auckland Council and Bunnings, after independent planning commissioners last year allowed the big new store to rise.

In November, commissioners chaired by Greg Hill granted consent for the Bunnings retail store on the site between Great North Rd, King St and Dean St, saying the building met design criteria and would contribute to a diverse and compatible mix of activities. It would enable the development of the area as a vibrant urban space, the commissioners said at the time.

The Environment Court decision from judge Jeff Smith showed a compromise had been reached.

"Following discussions and two rounds of court assisted mediation, the parties have now agreed to amend the conditions of consent which disposes of these appeals," the decision said.

See the court decision here:

See Bunnngs' Arch Hill plans here: