Have your say on CPP changes

Council is urging residents to have their say on proposed changes by the NSW Government that could significantly alter how development applications are assessed and how communities are informed and consulted. 

The NSW Government is currently seeking feedback on a proposed Statewide Community Participation Plan, which may affect notification requirements, exhibition periods and the role communities play in the planning process. 

Council is concerned that some of the proposed reforms could weaken long-standing local planning processes and reduce opportunities for community input on development proposals. 

In particular, Council is advocating for safeguards to ensure: 

• Community notification is not reduced or removed without appropriate protections 
• Councils are not exposed to legal or procedural risks where developments are not exhibited but later found to be non-compliant 
• Residents continue to have a meaningful opportunity to review and provide feedback on developments in their neighbourhood 

Council has resolved to make a submission to the NSW Government raising several key points, including: 

• If notification requirements are reduced, the State Government must provide clear legislative protection or indemnity for councils where issues arise due to non-notified development applications later found to require further assessment or variation. 
• State Significant Development exhibition periods should be aligned with the proposed 28-day exhibition period for council-related development applications, ensuring consistency and adequate community review time. 

Council is encouraging all residents to review the proposed changes and make a submission before the closing date. Community feedback plays a vital role in ensuring that planning decisions reflect local needs and values. 

Provide your feedback by 5pm Wednesday 3 June at https://www.nsw.gov.au/have-your-say/statewide-community-participation-plan