The Government has accepted a recommendation by the Environmental Protection Authority to have an independent board of inquiry hear a plan to build an inland port near Hamilton.
The Ruakura development plan also includes industrial and commercial areas and housing.
The EPA recommended a board of inquiry because the development, which requires a change in the Hamilton district plan, is part of a proposal of national significance.
The development, which is a joint venture between Tainui Group Holdings and Chedworth Properties is part of a master plan for the Ruakura area over the next 30 - 50 years.
