Decision Maker:

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Date of Decision: January 22, 2026

Purpose:

Content: That Council:   (i)            Approves the adoption of a single Planning Committee with a membership of 13 Councillors, reflecting the existing arrangements.   (ii)            Notes the Planning Infrastructure Act 2025 and the anticipated subsequent Regulations which may prescribe mandatory parameters for committee size and composition.   Reason for Decisions – The decisions align with best practice in accordance with the Planning Advisory Service (including their review in 2024.)   Alternative Options Considered – The following options were considered and disregarded: •         To not undertake a review of the planning committees, this was disregarded on the basis that it would not be in accordance with the agreed motion of Council. •         To delay the presentation of this report to Council on the basis of intended and anticipated changes to legislation and regulation. This was disregarded on the basis it would not be in accordance with the motion agreed at Council. Additionally, the timescales for the operational changes arising from legislation and regulation are not yet known. This delay would disproportionately disadvantage those members who sought and supported this review before Council. •         To revert to the arrangements in place prior to May 2025. This was disregarded on the basis that this was not consistent with best practice as outlined within the report, and that there is no operational need demonstrated for additional committee capacity.