Significant changes to development application consultation processes brought in by the NSW Government come into effect today.
From Tuesday 1 September, residential developments categorised as ‘low impact’ under the new rules will not be exhibited or open for public submissions.
“Like all councils across the state, we will be working to uphold the changes to notifications as determined by the NSW Government which are intended to streamline the process and potentially reduce the timeframes for development assessments,” said Director City Development, Emma Struys.
“While some DAs will not be publicly exhibited, planning staff continue to consider all relevant planning matters during the assessment process, including issues such as privacy, overshadowing and heritage significance,” Ms Struys said.
“We understand the changes under the CPP are extensive and we remain committed to keeping our community informed about planning proposals that affect them and, where possible, giving people an opportunity to have their say,” she said.
Under the CPP, councils will not be required to consult with community groups or stakeholders, including Local Aboriginal Land Councils and Accredited Community Forums.
“However, Council will continue to inform these community bodies about relevant planning matters through our Community Engagement Strategy,” she said.
The types of development applications generally affected by the changes include houses and dual occupancies up to two storeys, secondary dwellings, up to five attached or multi dwelling houses and small subdivisions of up to five lots. It also covers pools, sheds, pergolas, carports and more.
Examples of developments requiring exhibition include centre-based childcare facilities, commercial developments, medical centres, tourism and industrial developments. These applications will continue to be exhibited for at least 14 days which is consistent with Council’s previous notification timeframe.
The public exhibition timeframe for regional and district strategic plans (prepared by the NSW Department of Planning) and Council local strategic planning statements has been extended to 60 days while structure plans, precinct and masterplans for urban renewal areas have been extended to 42 days.
Submitted applications will continue to be available for viewing on the NSW Planning Portal and Council’s Application Tracker, where information and updates are published.
