19 September, 2013
Government must address fundamental flaws in new planning laws
The Nature Conservation Council (NCC) and the Total Environment Centre (TEC) have welcomed the NSW Government’s announcement that it will delay introduction of its new planning laws, in response to serious concerns raised by local councils and a powerful community campaign opposing the laws.
“The draft planning laws are unfair and unbalanced, placing the interests of developers above local communities and the environment,” said Pepe Clarke, NCC Chief Executive Officer.
“The proposed laws exclude ordinary people from up to 80 per cent of development decisions, create serious new corruption risks and remove important protections for heritage and the environment.
“Minister Hazzard’s decision to delay introduction of the legislation is a testament to the powerful community campaign opposing the new laws and the carefully considered intervention by local government.
“The message is clear: it’s time to go back to the drawing board on these laws,” said Mr Clarke.
More than 5,000 submissions were received in response to the White Paper and draft planning laws.
“It’s clear that the public has legitimate concerns about the impacts of the proposed laws on their rights, their local environment and their way of life,” said Jeff Angel, TEC Executive Director.
“Government needs to carefully consider feedback provided by key stakeholders and the community, and take action to address the fundamental flaws in the proposed legislation.
“The new planning system must provide improved protection for natural resources and the environment, at both the strategic planning and development assessment stage.
“Our state deserves a modern planning system that promotes vibrant local communities, active public participation in planning processes and effective protection for the natural environment,” said Mr Angel.
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Planning and Development
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