In a few weeks, developers whose projects are listed under the Fast-track Approvals Act will be eligible to apply for approvals from expert panels.
The Fast-track Approvals Act aims to expedite critical infrastructure and development projects across the country.
Based on the Ministry for the Environment website, The [ Fast-track Approvals ] Act “was aimed at establishing a permanent fast-track regime that would make it easier and quicker to gain approvals for development and infrastructure projects that would deliver regional and national benefits.”
Ministers have approved a total of 149 projects to be included in the Fast-track Approvals Act, allowing developers associated with these projects to apply to the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) for consideration by an expert panel.
The approved projects encompass a variety of sectors, including housing developments, a dry dock, port expansions, highways, mines, and aquaculture projects, among others.
A source informed BusinessDesk that the estimated cost to submit a project for consideration is likely to exceed $300,000. BusinessDesk reached out to the Ministry for the Environment for confirmation of this figure, but the ministry did not provide a response.
However, a spokesperson indicated that fees and charges related to the Fast-track Approvals Act will be determined by regulation and are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
According to the spokesperson, “All applicants pay initial, upfront fees when they lodge an application (for referral, land exchanges, or substantive applications). These will act as a deposit for costs incurred.”
“If the deposit is greater than the actual and reasonable costs, the regulations provide for partial refunds to applicants,” the spokesperson added.
If the deposit is inadequate, applicants will receive an invoice from the Environmental Protection Authority to cover the outstanding costs.
EPA will first assess applications for completeness before forwarding them to a panel convener to establish an expert panel. This panel must consist of at least one member nominated by relevant local authorities and another with expertise in te ao Māori and Māori development.
The panels are tasked with reviewing the applications, and if a project receives approval, they will also determine any conditions that need to be set.
Projects listed under the Fast-track Approvals Act will have access to the fast-track application portal starting February 7, 2025.