Case for broad planning reform reinforced

The case for wholesale reform of the planning system is reinforced by the Government’s decision to overhaul the process for state significant development, according to the Property Council of Australia.

The Property Council’s members finance, own and develop major commercial, retail, industrial, hotel, retirement living and residential assets.

The Government has announced it will impose clear timeframes, better accountability, greater efficiencies and other improvements to state significant developments.

 

“There’s no doubt state significant developments have been trapped in a complex and slow approvals process,” NSW Executive Director Glenn Byres said today.

“It is emblematic of broader inefficiencies across the system that stymies investment, jobs and new housing.

“The property industry accounts for 10 percent of the State’s economic growth and one in 10 jobs, but the vast bulk of developments are excluded from the state significant regime.

“The rest of the planning system needs to be made clear, consistent and efficient – which is why the Upper House’s decision to effectively block new laws in 2013 remains a black mark.

“The case for a root-and-branch overhaul of planning laws is still compelling and we hope to see all parties commit to a meaningful reform agenda ahead of the State election.”

The Property Council’s blueprint for change is outlined in its 2015 Election Platform. See here for more details: https://www.propertycouncil.com.au/nsw/2015/2015NSWElection.pdf.