The Three Lanes development is a leading example of how expert planning can enable large-scale community transformation. Planz was proud to support Ōtautahi Community Housing Trust (OCHT) through the consenting process for this milestone development in Somerfield, Christchurch.

The project replaces an old decommissioned 35-unit social housing complex with 65 modern, energy-efficient homes, designed and constructed to meet Homestar 6 standards. The development includes a carefully planned mix of one- to four-bedroom units, arranged across 11 two-storey blocks, forming three distinct community clusters that support connection, safety, and wellbeing.

Planz led the full consenting process for this complex site, which required multiple regional consents from Environment Canterbury and land use and contaminated soil consents from Christchurch City Council. These covered a broad range of planning matters, with consent required for the scale of the development, built form non-compliances, earthworks over an aquifer, construction and operational stormwater discharge, remediation of contaminated land, and the removal of trees protected by consent notices on the Title.

Despite the complexity, our team delivered a smooth, non-notified consenting process, thanks to early engagement with key stakeholders, collaborative relationships across the board, and a strong technical understanding of the site’s constraints and opportunities.

This redevelopment is a fantastic demonstration of how thoughtful, strategic planning can help deliver sustainable, accessible, and resilient housing, and reflects the vital role planners play in shaping stronger communities.

Renders Courtesy of PXA Architects