Controversial development plan for Pegasus Golf Course declined fast-track approval

The Canterbury Pegasus Golf Course development plan has been declined fast-track approval by the Minister for Infrastructure, Chris Bishop. The property developer Wolfbrook intends to transform the 18-hole course into 1000 homes and a mixed-use commercial and community area. On Wednesday, a decision was released on the Fast Track website stating that the Minister has chosen not to refer the project to the fast-track process.

If a project is not referred, the applicant can resubmit a new application, which involves fees and charges. The Fast Track's notice of decisions letter explains that the project can only be accepted if the minister is content that the project meets the criteria in section 22. This includes proving that the project benefits regional or national infrastructure or development.

Furthermore, referring the project to the fast-track approvals process could facilitate its processing, making it more timely and cost-effective. The minister also has the discretion to decline a referral application for any other reason, regardless of whether the project meets the criteria in section 22 of the Act. The minister concluded that it would be more appropriate to address the project's matters under another Act or Acts.