Once again it appears the National Capital Authority has taken their own planning rules with a pinch of salt and failed to adequately consult with residents directly affected by proposed changes to State Circle blocks.
Today the Joint Standing Committee on National Capital and External Territories met to hear concerns from residents about Draft Amendment 39, stating that the consultation process conducted by the NCA was not adequate.
The main point of contention for residents is the NCA’s decision to dramatically alter the proposed changes to State Circle blocks, primarily increasing the height restrictions from 2 to 3 storeys.
While the Committee has already held an inquiry into Draft Amendment 39 – and published its report in October 2002, the changes to the height restrictions meant that the Senate Committee has had to revisit Draft Amendment 39 as part of the inquiry into the role of the NCA.
Residents of surrounding areas – primarily those in Canterbury and Somers Crescents are furious about the changes and produced a signed statement which had 60 (out of a possible 80) signatures of those opposed the NCA changes.
Even developers are unhappy, today giving evidence which outlined how the NCA proposals will lead to poor design outcomes.
But perhaps the most alarming outcome of today’s hearing is that the NCA seems to have one set of rules for parties who agree with the NCA’s views and another approach for parties who disagree with their views.
There should not be such major discrepancies in the handling of planning issues falling under the responsibility of the National Capital Authority and it is simply not good enough that the NCA continue to make up the rules as they go along.
Contact: Adina Cirson – (02) 6277 3334 or 0418 488 295
