Reverse sensitivity concern

STU TERVIT (left) and senior technician, Shane Carley, discuss work required on an engine. At right is the boundary fence of the proposed residential development and in the background are the company workshop, boat testing area, compressor etc. 247071AD

By Grant Johnston

Te Awamutu Motors/Rosetown Holden principal Stu Tervit is concerned a planned multi unit residential development alongside his business will pose ‘reverse sensitivity’ issues.

“It’s just metres away from our workshop and our industry carries with it a certain amount of unavoidable noise levels - from compressors, air guns, two stroke outboard motors etcetera, as well as a high level of after hours security lighting. We have a successful and extremely busy business and as part of that we are looking at having double shifts, which will mean the second shift will not finish until 11 at night. The Council, which has allowed this residential development to proceed despite the fact it is surrounded by mainly commercial businesses, will soon be fielding complaints from the new residents about their noisy neighbours - I see that as inevitable.”

Mr Tervit says the company has been operating on its present site for over 50 years and employs 20 staff with a turnover exceeding $18 Million.

“Growth of business in Te Awamutu should be supported and encouraged which requires the help of the District Council by future planning of business growth. We do not want to be infringing on neighbouring residents’ basic human rights as we try to expand and grow our business. We’re certainly not about to go away. In fact we’re leasing out our building on Alexandra Street and relocating our administration, parts and Mitsubishi departments to our Gasoline Alley and Rosetown site in a one million dollar redevelopment. We not only own the property on the western boundary of the proposed residential development, but we also own the property on the northern boundary where I believe living areas will look to. The development we are doing will be on both boundaries, not single storey but two storey, so residents will be looking up at the commercial buildings. I just can’t see how our business and a residential development right alongside can co-exist harmoniously.”

Mr Tervit says that he’s been pursuing purchase of the 1426 square metre section behind Mahoe Street Medical Centre for desperately needed extra customer parking.

“I’m prepared to pay an extremely competitive market price for the section, but the owner and I have been unable to come to an agreement over the price. I have no beef with the owner, but I am concerned about the ramifications if this four unit housing development does go ahead.”

Waipa District Council deputy chief executive, Garry Dyet, says residential development is a permitted activity in the general zoned area.

“Developers or unit buyers have to be aware that there are higher levels of noise and light spill permitted in the town centre. The company concerned in this instance has an existing use right, although that does not open the door for commercial operations to create an unreasonable level of noise - say late at night.”