New councillors told to fix approvals process, or else
Sep 5
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Prospective new councillors have already been read the riot act by Planning Minister Paul Scully, who said he’ll use the local government elections as a line in the sand moment for councils lagging behind on approving new homes.
Mr. Scully said he expected new councillors to “make improvements from day one” if they were voted in at the local elections on September 14.
Analysis of council planning data shows seven NSW councils over the last financial year took more than 200 days on average to make a decision on development applications, as reported in yesterday’s Daily Telegraph.
The waiting-time blowouts come despite the NSW Government issuing directions insisting straightforward DAs be decided within 40 days.
The logjam threatens to stymie the NSW Government’s bid to hit housing targets set by the federal government requiring 377,000 new homes to be built in the state by 2029.
Mr. Scully, in response to the figures, said councils lagging after the election could have tough action taken against them—including having an administrator take over a council’s planning system.
“New councillors will be elected on September 14 and I expect them to make improvements from day one,” he said.
“Lots of local government candidates are talking about dealing with the housing crisis and if they are elected, they have the chance to turn those words into action."
“If I see consistent behaviour where councils don’t meet the ... expectations on planning and are not improving their performance, the government will step in—up to and including issuing improvement directives and in extreme cases appointing a planning administrator.”
Team Central Coast is committed to implementing practical and sustainable housing solutions to provide quality housing options that are affordable for Central Coast residents and families, with a strong emphasis on promoting affordable and social housing to enhance outcomes for our entire region."
TEAM CENTRAL COAST
Team Central Coast is community movement and a voice that encourages like-minded
independent candidates to become catalysts for change in regional governance. The Team Central Coast mission is simple and rooted in genuine consultation and collaboration with the community to achieve local outcomes that effectively address both current and future needs.
It is time for our region to come together, formulate a robust and inspiring vision, and
collaborate with all levels of government, business, and the community to ensure that the Central Coast remains an exceptional place to live, work, and thrive.
Lawrie McKinna
On behalf of the 15 Independent Candidates who form Team Central Coast
Media enquiries and interviews:
Lawrie McKinna
P: 0427 682 071
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