NSW Government's response to the recommendations from the ...

NSW Government’s response to the planning reviews I September 2004
Recommendations - Summary
DIPNR investigate opportunities to delegate
aspects of the Minister’s local environmental plan
(LEP) approval role to local councils where
integrated plan provisions are consistent with
State and regional objectives.
Government Response
Supported in principle.
The Section 94 Review Taskforce be requested to
examine the retention (or otherwise) of the
strategic planning fee as part of the terms of
reference of that Taskforce.
Included as part of terms of reference.
DIPNR review the retention (or otherwise) of the
strategic planning fee after all the current planning
system reviews are completed.
Supported in principle.
It is expected that collection of the fee will cease when
the planning reforms have been implemented.
DIPNR provide clarity in regard to the imposition
of the strategic planning fee.
Supported.
Revenue collected to date should be shared
equally between State and local government.
Sharing of revenue with local government is supported.
$8.3 million has already been allocated to local
councils from the Planning Reform fund. The 2004–05
round will be targeted to local councils for
implementing priority planning reforms.
DIPNR urgently develop a comprehensive
strategy for spending the fee revenue that targets
local government.
Supported.
Consider developing integrated land use and
natural resources legislation.
Supported as a long-term reform objective.
DIPNR develop a suitable communications
strategy, with particular focus on managing the
expectation of key regional stakeholders.
Supported.
Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Natural Resources Page 7