The State’s newest planning principles have been scrapped following instruction from the Premier to prioritise the delivery of new homes.
Launched in December by former Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Rob Stokes, the nine Ministers Planning Principles were to guide the planning system by creating clear, strategic approaches to delivering housing, jobs, infrastructure and good design.
At the time, Mr Stokes said the Principles would guide the delivery of safe, diverse, and affordable housing; well-designed places that enhanced quality of life; provide well-designed and located transport and infrastructure integrated with land use; and support the preservation of NSW’s natural environment and heritage.
He said the Principles also promoted the sustainable use of resources and a transition to renewable energy.
Revoking the Principles which were due to come into effect this month, current Minister for Planning, Anthony Roberts said any principles must help deliver the State’s objective for the planning system – to boost the supply of new homes and housing affordability.
“The Premier has given me a very clear priority – delivering more homes and our principles must help me deliver on that priority,” Mr Roberts said.
“I’ve also heard from our stakeholders that the necessary pace of reform due to our swift response to the pandemic has taken a toll,” he said.
“I want to work with our stakeholders on ways to boost the supply and affordability so, as we do that, I have discontinued the Minister’s Planning Principles.”
Mr Roberts didn’t comment on the possibility of a new set of ministerial planning principles for the State.
