Photo: Lois Williams / LDR
A vocal advocate of property rights, West Coast regional councillor Allan Birchfield, is applauding the government's environmental law reforms - but he warns Coast councils can't afford to compensate landowners with significant natural areas (SNAs) on their properties.
The Natural Environment Bill, presented in Parliament on Tuesday, entitles landowners to compensation from councils in the form of cash, lower rates or extra development rights, if an SNA is identified on their land.
RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop said the Bill strengthens property rights.
"It restores the freedom for New
Continue Reading on RNZ
This preview shows approximately 15% of the article. Read the full story on the publisher's website to support quality journalism.