Landowners could be required to include more green and more tree canopy cover on their properties under proposed changes to the ACT Territory Plan.
Announced by Minister for Planning and Land Management, Mick Gentleman, the proposed Plan variation aims to increase tree canopy coverage and provide more green space in Canberra.
“These proposed changes mean Canberra will be even greener, boosting the number of trees and green spaces in new residential areas,” Mr Gentleman said.
“We are also responding to concerns that big houses lacking green space are heating our city,” he said.
“Developers and builders will need to include bigger backyards and green spaces for all new developments, ensuring our growing city remains sustainable while retaining its character.”
Mr Gentleman said there were currently no rules requiring ACT residential landowners to have tree canopy cover on their block.
He said the proposed changes would introduce a new site coverage requirement for single dwellings and multi-unit development in residential areas.
Mr Gentleman said the changes would require at least 20 per cent tree canopy coverage for multi-unit development in higher density developments.
“The proposed changes will also increase the amount of green space on residential blocks by updating the definition of ‘planting area’ to exclude areas such as patios and swimming pools,” he said.
“The amount of planting area required will also be increased.”
The Minister said pending a decision by the Standing Committee on Planning, Transport and City Services, the changes were expected to be introduced next year.
“Government will next look at introducing tree planting and green space requirements in the Estate Development Code and for residential buildings in Commercial Zones,” Mr Gentleman said.
