Auckland

James Clarke

Consultant & Planner

Education

Diploma in Town Planning, University of London, UK, 1970
Bachelor of Arts (Geography), Cape Town, South Africa, 1966

Professional Affiliations

Member, New Zealand Planning Institute (NZPI)
Member, International Association for Impact Assessment

Profile

Jim has, over the past 25 years, been involved in most facets of planning. From a professional start in town planning, he has worked in the public and private sectors, dealing with urban, rural and coastal settings. A background in the social sciences, coupled with experience in the developed and developing countries, provides him with the analytical skills to ensure focused problem solving.

Environmental management became an important speciality for Jim well before its more widespread adoption. The ability to co-ordinate diverse technical skills and to communicate complex conclusions in a non-technical form has become an important component of his professional work.

Expertise

Assessment of effects on the environment

Evaluating effects of projects and advising on mitigation and consultation for resource consents under the Resource Management Act.

Project management

Co-ordinating the input of different technical disciplines and managing project development with an emphasis on environmental issues.

Public consultation

Identifying groups or persons affected by or with an interest in a particular project. Facilitating consultation by effectively informing interested parties and co-ordinating appropriate means of discussion. Extensive experience with Tangata Whenua consultation.

Socio-economic impact assessment

Evaluating the socio-economic implications of planning policy and projects. This involves surveys and statistical analysis, backed up by extensive practical experience within New Zealand and abroad.

Resource consents

Preparing resource consent applications for projects including assessment of effects and advice on mitigation, analysis of Plan provisions, consultation with consent authorities and affected parties, and presenting evidence to council or Environment Court hearings. In particular, advising on strategies to secure planning consents that minimise risk and are cost effective.

Statutory planning and policy preparation

Analysing issues and developing objectives and policies for Plan changes, review and formulation of district plans. Co-ordinating public information, community consultation and assisting with public hearings.