The Government's first moves have been made to replace the much-maligned Resource Management Act

The RMA's complexity has been blamed for holding back development of new housing.

Under proposed changes, limits would be set on the level of environmental destruction allowed on a new project.

Environment Minister David Parker says it'll help to fix the errors of the current RMA.

He says it will improve future outcomes for towns and cities, including in relation to housing supply and affordability.

The Bill will go before the House early next year.