The Department of Planning and Environment’s proposal would revise and consolidate five rural and agricultural SEPPs into one Primary Production and Rural Development SEPP.
EDO NSW sees the in-principle benefits in ensuring planning controls are up-to-date, accessible and effective. In doing so it is also important that environmental protections and community engagement are maintained and improved, consistent with the aims of planning and environmental legislation.
Part 1 of this submission considers some important issues upfront that are not dealt with, or fully dealt with, in the Explanation of Intended Effect:
– two guiding principles – on maintaining environmental protections and community engagement, and transparency in SEPP reviews and outcomes;
– how the reforms will affect land use on Environmental zones (E-zones); and
– the need for closer regulation and best practice guidance for intensive plant agriculture (such as berry farming).
Part 2 comments on the proposed new Primary Production and Rural Development SEPP.
Part 3 comments on proposed amendments to other planning instruments and regulations and draft guidelines for intensive livestock agriculture.
