Government assesses proposals for economic growth initiatives.
The Government's City and Regional Deals initiative has entered its assessment stage, with regional councils' proposals being evaluated to determine which areas will progress towards a deal. The program aims to drive economic growth through infrastructure development, unlocking productivity and attracting investment.
According to Local Government Minister Simon Watts and Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop, the response from regions across New Zealand has been positive, demonstrating the value councils see in the program. The initiative encourages regional collaboration to deliver long-term visions, focusing on critical infrastructure like housing and transport.
Councils submitted light-touch proposals outlining up to five priority projects that would unlock economic growth in their area by February 28. The assessment will be based on a strategic framework outlined by the Government. The results of the assessment will be provided to Ministers for consideration, with the intention to have the first deal concluded by the end of 2025 and three deals in place by October 2026.
The program is designed to reduce New Zealand's infrastructure deficit through collaboration between central and local government. It is expected that the successful regions will benefit from accelerated economic growth and productivity.