What is the issue?
The draft Northern Beaches LEP proposes to reduce the range of land uses presently permissible in the deferred lands. Council’s comparison indicates that the number of permissible uses may fall from about 170 to between 23 and 44, depending on the proposed zone.
Why does WUFA disagree?
Permissible land uses affect the future flexibility, value and practical use of land. WUFA considers that long-standing lawful opportunities should not be removed without a clear and persuasive planning justification.
Key points
- Many currently permissible uses are proposed to become prohibited.
- The scale of the reduction differs between C3, RU4, R5 and R2 land.
- The exhibited material provides limited site-specific justification for many removals.
- Additional Permitted Uses provide a practical way to retain appropriate existing rights.
Examples
| Land use | Existing position | Draft position | WUFA position |
|---|---|---|---|
| Veterinary hospitals | Permissible in relevant existing framework | Removed from some proposed zones | Retain where appropriate |
| Storage premises | Permissible in relevant existing framework | Removed from proposed zoning | Retain through APU |
| Animal boarding | Currently available in relevant circumstances | Not included in proposed R5 table | Add to R5 |
This is a concise example only. Refer to the supporting comparison documents for the complete analysis.
WUFA recommendation
Existing lawful land uses should be retained through an Additional Permitted Uses provision unless Council demonstrates a clear strategic planning, environmental or public-interest reason for their removal.