The Department of Planning and Environment (the Department of Planning) has announced that they are going to replace the current planning process, known as the Pre-Gateway review process.
The Pre-Gateway review process allows developers to challenge council rezoning decisions, when a local council refuses to approve an application to amend local planning rules.
The Department of Planning expects the new review process to:
- introduce a stricter test for the review of existing zoning;
- lead to greater independence of the review process; and
- allow requests to be referred to the Joint Regional Planning Panels or the Planning Assessment Commission within three days.
The current Pre-Gateway review process has received criticism for its lack of transparency and independence. The Department of Planning believes that this new review process will lead to a more “transparent and balanced” process. During the announcement the Planning Minister Rob Stokes said “we’ve listened to community concerns and unexpected rezonings undermining confidence in local planning. That’s why we will reform the process of reviewing a council’s decision with a presumption against rezoning unless there is a compelling reason for change.”
For more information regarding this new rezoning review process click here. (link is external)
If you need help understanding this new rezoning review process, it is best to seek advice from planning lawyers in Western Sydney, to ensure that you understand this new process and avoid a planning dispute.
MatthewsFolbigg Lawyers, are specialist planning and environmental lawyers, located in Parramatta who are able to advise in relation to all matters relating to planning, local government and environmental law. Call an expert planning lawyer today on 1800 300 308.
