Reference group to work on proposed planning changes

I have asked the ACT Planning and Land Authority (ACTPLA) to establish an expert reference group made of community and industry members as well as professional associations to work with ACTPLA in considering issues raised in submissions received so far on draft variations to the Territory Plan 303 and 301. 

The public comment on draft variations to the Territory Plan 303 and 301 officially closed last week but given high public interest characterised by late submissions, I have asked ACTPLA to extend consultation until 17 September 2010 and establish the reference group because these proposed planning changes are very important. They will determine how we develop Canberra more sustainability by ensuring new suburbs take better advantage of solar orientation. 

They will also help to ensure a more sustainable city through redeveloping existing areas of Canberra in a way that helps us meet the community’s expectations for both action on climate change and preserving the look and feel of Canberra. 

The proposed changes include practical steps to help meet the ACT Labor Government’s target of cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 40 per cent by 2020, and 80 per cent by 2050, based on 1990 levels. 

Because these proposed planning changes have such far reaching implications for the environment and our community, and based on feedback we’ve received I have asked for the reference group to be established to help ensure the proposed changes are practical and workable and deliver the desired outcome. 

The reference group will work on a similar basis to that which helped us deliver the Territory Plan changes of 2007. Those changes were supported by all parties in the Legislative Assembly. 

As part of this work ACTPLA will seek extended community comment and work with the reference group to ensure areas zoned residential zone 2 (RZ2) in particular experience an appropriate level of redevelopment to enhance housing choice and contribute to the efficient use of existing social and physical infrastructure and services. 

The membership of the reference group will be announced once invitations have been accepted.