We are inviting the community and members of the development and building industry to comment on our draft Planning Matters Policy.
This new Policy will provide clear guidelines for the types of planning permit applications that Council will decide versus those decided by Shire officers under delegation. It also aligns decision-making processes with the principles of good governance under the Local Government Act. This ensures that the community is engaged in strategic planning and decision making. Economic, social and environmental sustainability will be promoted, making sure public transparency and service performance is balanced in all planning-related matters.
The Planning Matters Policy will replace the now discontinued Planning Services Committee and its Terms of Reference. The Policy will bring consistency and accountability to handling statutory matters, such as planning permits and strategic issues (including planning scheme amendments).
Draft Policy key themes:
- Clarity and transparency: The Policy provides clear guidance for the community and stakeholders on planning scheme amendments and planning permit processes.
- Reduced red tape: Routine applications would not be subject to delays, freeing up resources and allowing decisions to be made more efficiently.
- Fair and balanced decision-making: The Policy ensures a balanced approach, providing a framework for consistency in identifying application types that are of broader community interest or of strategic importance.
