17 September 2016

Today, the Canberra Liberals have released Planning for Canberra’s Future, the document that will guide the way for better planning policy under a Canberra Liberals Government, Shadow Minister for Planning Alistair Coe said today.

“The ACT’s planning system is too complex, lacks balance, provides no certainty, is frequently changed and promotes government thought bubbles. Planning for Canberra’s Future will give confidence to those involved in Canberra’s planning system and better outcomes for residents,” Mr Coe said.

“The Canberra Liberals plan has 29 separate commitments, including:

• A comprehensive review of the Territory Plan and making it more accessible. 
• A commitment to meaningful consultation before new planning legislation. 
• Reforming the Land Development Agency (LDA) as it has strayed from its core role of bringing land to market. 
• Ensuring a steady supply of land for the market. 
• Supporting a biennial Canberra Planning Summit, the first to be held in 2017. 
• Refining the role of the Government Architect and their role in planning principals. 
• Establishing pre-development application meetings for major constructions. 
• A broad consultation process for dual occupancy developments. 
• An overhaul of current solar access rules. 
• A limit on the amount of time shipping containers can be in the front yard of properties. 
• The development of a Planning Directorate App. 
• A review of all fees and charges that impact the construction industry. 
• Ensuring that all town centres and other high density areas have access to irrigated green space. 
• Making land available in existing and future suburbs for faith and cultural organisations.

“Our Plan also includes previously announced commitments to remove the LVC in Civic and the Town Centres. Canberra’s planning system needs a fresh approach and Planning for Canberra’s Future will map the path forward,” Mr Coe concluded.

Contact: Joe Prevedello 0402768432