Confusion on apartment sizes needs to be fixed

Confusion on apartment sizes needs to be fixedThe NSW Government needs to urgently resolve the chaos created by a new ruling that has re-interpreted minimum apartment sizes, according to the Property Council of Australia. A decision by the Land and Environment Court has effectively opened the door to increased minimum apartment sizes – and additional costs for homebuyers. “The decision is emblematic of the contradictory and confusing rules in the NSW planning system – and why it’s in need of reform,” NSW Executive Director Glenn Byres said. “We have two separate sets of guidance material from government on the one issue – and it is no wonder there is chaos following. “The risk of councils imposing new standards including larger apartment sizes means homebuyers will pay more for the additional construction cost. “And some projects may be stalled as developers consider the impact on feasibilities. “At a time when the city is gripped by concerns about housing affordability and supply, this is the last thing we need. “We would urge the Government to do two things. “First, they should clarify that the rule of thumb apartment sizes prevail and complete proposed reforms of SEPP 65 started last year to emphasise this. “And second, the broader planning system needs reform and proposed new laws stalled in the Upper House during 2013 need to be revisited.” Media contact: Glenn Byres | M 0419 695 435 | E [email protected]