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Mid North Region Plan A volume of the South Australian Planning Strategy May 2011
Mid North Region Plan
A volume of the South Australian Planning Strategy
This document is the Mid North Region Plan.
The document has been prepared by the South Australian
Government, through the Department of Planning and Local
Government, as a volume of the South Australian Planning
Strategy pursuant to section 22 of the Development Act 1993
and is subject to change.
For further information
Please visit www.dplg.sa.gov.au or telephone the Department
of Planning and Local Government on 08 8303 0600.
Disclaimer
While every reasonable effort has been made to ensure that this document
is correct at the time of publication, the Minister for Urban Development,
Planning and the City of Adelaide, the State of South Australia, its agencies,
instrumentalities, employees and contractors disclaim any and all liability to
any person in respect to anything or the consequence of anything done or
omitted to be done in reliance upon the whole or any part of this document.
© Government of South Australia. Published 2011. All rights reserved.
ISBN 978-0-7590-0138-1
FIS 23121
iii
Minister for Urban
Development,
Pl anning and the
Cit y of Adel aide
South Australia’s Mid North is a diverse region, with some of the state’s
most appealing tourist destinations and an economy underpinned by
primary production and processing. The region is known for the wines of
the Clare Valley, the rich history of towns like Burra, the agriculture that
drives centres like Crystal Brooke and Peterborough, and the industry of
Port Pirie. The region is crossed by South Australia’s major freight and
tourism routes and, importantly, it is home for around 40,000 people.
The Mid North Region Plan is designed to make sure this beautiful
region remains a great place to live, work and visit for many years to
come. This plan is one of seven regional volumes in the South Australian
Planning Strategy. Based on a presumption of steady economic growth,
the plans indicate where new housing, industry and commercial activity
should be best located – and not located. The plan outlines the different
roles and functions of towns and addresses important issues, such as
the way industrial, commercial and residential areas connect and impact
on each other.
As with all of the regional plans, the challenge is to balance changes in
the economy and population with the need to protect the region’s natural
and historical features. These include unique ecosystems, landscapes
and the built environment of towns. The plan identifies the potential
effects of growth on these features and sets out land-use principles and
policies for development that will support their protection. Ultimately, the
plan is about helping the Mid North to continue to grow and develop in a
way which preserves everything the community values about the region.
The Mid North Region Plan was produced as a result of close
collaboration between the State Government, local councils, regional
development and natural resources management boards, local industry
and the community. The result is a document which points the way to a
future of well-managed growth, protected natural and industry assets,
and strong communities.
Hon John Rau MP
Deputy Premier
Minister for Urban Development, Planning and the City of Adelaide
v
Table of Contents
Chapter A OVERVIEW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Background . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
The role of the South Australian Planning Strategy . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
The objectives of the regional volumes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Alignment with state government policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
How the regional volumes will work at regional and local government levels . . . . . 5
Consideration of Commonwealth environmental matters . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Planning for change in regional South Australia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Chapter B THE CONTEXT FOR THE PLAN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
The Mid North region at a glance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Key goals for the Mid North region . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Chapter C THE VISION FOR THE MID NORTH REGION . . . . . . . . . . . 13
An integrated approach . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Chapter D PRINCIPLES AND POLICIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Environment and culture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Economic development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Population and settlements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Chapter E INFRASTRUCTURE AND SERVICE PROVISION . . . . . . . . . . 51
APPENDICES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Appendix 1 How the Plan was developed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Appendix 2 Information about the Mid North region . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Appendix 3 Contribution of the Plan to South Australia’s Strategic Plan targets . . . 66
Appendix 4 Related reports, strategies and plans . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
GLOSSARY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
List of maps
A1 Planning regions covered in the South Australian Planning Strategy . . . . . . 3
C1 An integrated vision for the Mid North region . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
D1 Environment and culture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
D2 Economic development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
D3 Population and settlements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
vii
overview
Chapter A
1
overview
Chapter A
Background The role of the South can plan for the provision of
Chapter A OVERVIEW
services and infrastructure, such
The Mid North Region Plan (the Australian Planning as transport, health, schools,
Plan) guides future land use and Strategy and aged care and community
development in the region. It facilities.
has been prepared by the South The Mid North Region Plan is one
At a local level, the regional
Australian Government, through the of seven regional volumes that,
volumes provide guidance
Department of Planning and Local together with The 30-Year Plan for
and resources for councils as
Government, in collaboration with Greater Adelaide, make up the
they undertake their Strategic
the Mid North, Southern Flinders South Australian Planning Strategy.
Management Plans and review and
Ranges and Northern Regional The regions covered in the regional
amend their Development Plans.
Development Boards1, the Northern volumes of the Planning Strategy
Development Plans contain the
and Yorke Natural Resources are: Eyre and Western, Far North,
zones, maps and explicit rules that
Management Board, other state Kangaroo Island2, Limestone
specify what can and cannot be
government agencies and the Coast, Murray and Mallee, Yorke
done with land in a council area.
seven councils of the region: and Mid North (refer to Map A1).
Councils must ensure that their
Clare and Gilbert Valleys Council While the Yorke and Mid North Development Plans are consistent
regions are currently covered in with the land-use policies and
District Council of Mount
the Planning Strategy as separate directions of the relevant regional
Remarkable
volumes, they eventually will be volume. The regional volumes also
District Council of Orroroo combined into one volume. guide amendments to Development
Carrieton Plans in unincorporated (out of
In the regional volumes the state
District Council of Peterborough government gives direction on council) areas, as undertaken by
land use and development for the the Minister for Urban Development,
Northern Areas Council
period 2010–2036. They set out Planning and the City of Adelaide
Port Pirie Regional Council (the Minister).
how the government proposes to
Regional Council of Goyder. balance population and economic The Structure Plans for the state’s
growth with the need to preserve major regional cities, including
Submissions received from
the environment and protect the Mount Gambier, Port Augusta, Port
industry, interest groups and
heritage, history and character of Lincoln, Port Pirie and Whyalla,
local communities during the
regional communities. They also flow from the regional volumes.
two-month public consultation
outline where people are likely to
period in 2008 have contributed to The South Australian Planning
live and the projected make-up
improving and finalising the Plan. Strategy is a requirement of
of the population so that state
For more information about the section 22 of the Development Act
and local government agencies
Mid North Region Plan and how 1993. The Minister is responsible
it was developed, please see for its preparation on behalf of
Appendix 1. the state government and for
reporting to the South Australian
2 Kangaroo Island is part of the Fleurieu and
Kangaroo Island SA Government Administrative Parliament annually on its
1 The Mid North, Southern Flinders Ranges and
Region but for planning purposes it is covered
in a separate regional volume of the South
implementation. Each volume of
Northern Regional Development Boards became Australian Planning Strategy. The Fleurieu the strategy must be reviewed at
Regional Development Australia Yorke and Mid Peninsula is covered in The 30-Year Plan for
North in 2009–10. Greater Adelaide. least every five years.
2Planning regions covered in the South Australian Planning Strategy Map A1
3The objectives of the Alignment with state Strategic Infrastructure Plan for
Chapter A OVERVIEW
South Australia (2005–06) by
regional volumes government policies identifying the infrastructure
priorities needed to support
To maximise the state’s The regional volumes of the South
economic and population growth.
opportunities and respond to its Australian Planning Strategy
Third, they tie in with the Housing
challenges, the regional volumes provide a link between broad,
Plan for South Australia (2005),
of the South Australian Planning statewide planning aims and
Water for Good—A Plan to Ensure
Strategy have three interlocking local, council-specific planning
our Water Future to 2050 (2009),
objectives. They are to: needs, and they work in tandem
the Economic Statement (2009),
maintain and improve liveability with key state policies, leading to
the State Natural Resources
a consistent approach to land use
increase competitiveness Management Plan (2006), the
and development across the state.
regional natural resources
drive sustainability and Firstly, the volumes support the management plans (2009)
resilience to climate change. achievement of a range of social, and South Australia’s Waste
economic and environmental Strategy (2005).
Figure A1 shows how these three targets in South Australia’s Strategic
objectives interrelate. Plan. Second, they feed into the
Figure A1 – Objectives of the regional volumes of the South Australian Planning Strategy
Liveability Competitiveness
A country lifestyle that is relaxed and has a strong Attracts jobs and investment
sense of community Retains people in the region
Has adequate and equitable access to services Attracts and welcomes people from different
A vibrant arts, cultural and sporting life backgrounds and places
Housing and cost of living is affordable Scenic landscapes with an intrinsic sense of place
Attractive to a diverse range of businesses and industries
Best elements of the past and present are evident
in town design and form Maximises competitive advantage in renewable
and clean energy
Sustainability and
climate change resilience
Pattern of settlements is deliberately re-engineered towards
greater sustainability and climate change resilience
Adaptation means the region responds to the risk of climate
change and massively improves water and energy efficiency
Preserves and restores the natural environment
4Figure A2 – The Mid North Region Plan’s relationship with key state government policies
South Australia’s Strategic Plan
Growing Improving Attaining Fostering Building Expanding
prosperity wellbeing sustainability creativity and communities opportunity
innovation
S P A T I A L S T R A T E G Y
SASP OBJECTIVES SASP OBJECTIVES
Mid North Region Plan
STATE POLICY INITIATIVES STATE POLICY INITIATIVES
Port Pirie Structure Plan
Water for Good – State Natural Strategic
Greenhouse Skills Strategy
A Plan to Ensure Resource Infrastructure
Strategy for
our Water Future Management Plan for
South Australia
to 2050 Plan South Australia
Information, Population Economic Planning
Communication Policy Statement Reform
and Technology
Relationship to South How the regional stakeholders such as regional
Australia’s Strategic Plan volumes will work
development and natural
resources management boards.
Figure A2 shows the relationship
of the regional volumes with South
at regional and local The collaborative process will
feature regional forums, which
Australia’s Strategic Plan (SASP) government levels will bring councils and relevant
and its targets, as well as the links bodies together each year to
to several state policy initiatives. While the regional volumes will
primarily operate at a regional agree on long-term land-use
See Appendix 3 for further level, local government will play a and infrastructure priorities,
information about SASP principles pivotal role in their implementation, appropriate targets, and the need
and targets. in collaboration with DPLG, other to focus their respective resources
state government agencies and on implementing the priorities.
5Consideration of Planning for change in cent share of the state’s total
Chapter A OVERVIEW
population (Target 5.9). Based on
Commonwealth regional South Australia the all-of-state population target
environmental matters The regional volumes of the South
developed for The 30-Year Plan
for Greater Adelaide, this would
Australian Planning Strategy set
The regions encompass many equate to about 99,000 additional
out land-use policies to manage
matters of National Environmental people taking up residence in
the changes that are forecast
Significance (NES) that are regional areas, resulting in a
to occur across the regions. Of
protected under the Commonwealth regional population of 396,000
particular concern are changes in
Environment Protection and people by 2036.
population and climate, which are
Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999
having, and will continue to have, Table A1 breaks down this
(EPBC Act). These matters include:
significant impact on the demand population target by region and
nationally listed species and for services and infrastructure, the indicates the past population
ecological communities natural environment, the character growth rates (1996–2008). Each
of communities and the economic region requires an average annual
migratory species
prosperity of the regions. growth rate of 1.03 per cent to
wetlands of international achieve its population target
importance under the Ramsar increase and maintain its 2008
Convention (Ramsar-listed
Regional population change
share of the estimated resident
wetlands) The state government believes population (ERP).
that sustainable population growth
national and World Heritage While overall population numbers
is essential to maintain healthy
items/areas. in regional areas have remained
communities and a labour force
relatively static during the
Councils’ decision making that can support our economy.
past decade, there have been
processes and development While much of the state’s
significant changes in where
controls should provide for early population growth is expected to
people are choosing to live.
consideration of matters of NES occur in Greater Adelaide, regional
and recognition that actions areas are targeted to grow as well. Numbers have declined in the
that may potentially have a more sparsely populated areas,
The make-up of the state’s
significant impact on matters of particularly those in the Far North,
population is also changing
NES will require a referral to the and in settlements with less than
dramatically—it is ageing at
Commonwealth Department of 1000 people (with the exception
a faster rate than the other
the Environment, Water, Heritage of coastal communities). Changes
Australian states and this will
and the Arts under the auspices to population distribution are
bring significant challenges for
of the EPBC Act. being driven by the restructuring
planning, particularly in terms of
of farming enterprises, resulting
the type and location of housing
in larger and fewer agricultural
and its proximity to services.
properties; the interstate and
South Australia’s Strategic Plan intrastate migration of people
(SASP) calls for regional South seeking a regional lifestyle; and
Australia to maintain an 18 per changing industry demands.
6Table A1 – Population trends and targets by region 1996–2036
SASP T5.9 Target—Maintain regional
Population trends
SA’s share (18%) of state population a
Average Population Population
Share of 2008 Population
annual target in growth
regional increase
Region ERP in 2008b growth rate 2036d 2008–36
populationc 2008–36
1996–2008 (based on (persons
(%) (persons)
(%) 2008 share) per year)
Eyre and Western 58,072 0.19 19.54 77,385 19,313 715
Murray and Mallee 70,125 0.23 23.60 93,446 23,321 864
Far North 28,460 –0.46 9.58 37,925 9465 351
Limestone Coast 65,402 0.35 22.01 87,152 21,750 806
Yorke and
75,112 0.15 25.28 100,092 24,980 925
Mid Northe
Total 297,171 0.17 100.00 396,000 98,829 3660
Generally, towns with more The demographic profile of the Notes to Table A1:
than 1000 people have grown; regions also has been changing, a The regional population targets are aspirational,
several of these towns have had with an ageing population and based on the all-of-state population target
developed for The 30-Year Plan for Greater
the fastest rates of population generally declining numbers of Adelaide. The timeframes cited are uncertain and
the growth targets will be amended as the results
growth in the state. Larger centres young people. of more recent demographic analyses become
such as Port Lincoln, Murray However, increasing economic
available.
Bridge and Mount Gambier have investment in the regions and the b ERP (estimated resident population). Australian
continued to expand, while in Port expansion and diversification of
Bureau of Statistics, Regional population growth,
Australia, cat. no. 3218.0, ABS, Canberra, Apr. 2009.
Pirie, Port Augusta and Whyalla primary industries, aquaculture, c Department of the Premier and Cabinet,
the population has stabilised and mining and the services that
South Australia’s Strategic Plan, DPC,
Government of South Australia, Adelaide,
shown some improvement after a support tourism and older 2007, .
sustained period of decline. populations are expected to attract d South Australia’s population is expected to reach
2.2 million by 2036. Department of Planning and
and maintain more young people Local Government, The 30-Year Plan for Greater
Adelaide: Background Technical Report, DPLG,
and people from overseas. This will Government of South Australia, Adelaide, 2009,
contribute to the achievement of p. 16, .
the SASP population growth target. e The Mid North’s ERP in 2008 was 41,653. The
population target for 2036 is 55,440, which equates
to a population increase of 13,787 people.
7To achieve the SASP workforce In recent years, state and local Our understanding of climate
Chapter A OVERVIEW
targets, the South Australian governments and regional change and its ramifications is
Government, through the communities have improved water evolving rapidly. It is critical that
Department of Further Education, security through augmentation policies and decisions are based
Employment, Science and of supply, the introduction of on the best current information,
Technology, is working with permanent water conservation, and are able to be adjusted in
industry to develop workforce and measures such as wastewater the future if required.
action plans in the mining, re-use and stormwater harvesting.
defence, construction, health, and Increased housing density, Managing change
advanced manufacturing sectors. improved water efficiency of
As well, industry skills boards are buildings and the incorporation South Australia’s regions face the
developing workforce development of water-sensitive urban design challenge of managing the impacts
plans to address the demand for (WSUD) principles in the of climate change and population
labour and skills in industries that development process will lead to growth to protect viable primary
have lost workers to mining. more efficient water consumption production industries and the
in regional towns. natural resources upon which they
Any potential impacts on natural depend. This challenge has been
resources, the environment, State and local governments are compounded by reduced rainfall
biodiversity and the character of developing regional demand during several drought years.
communities as a result of these and supply plans, to be in place During this time rural communities
changing population patterns and by 2014, as outlined in Water have again shown their resilience
related development will need to for Good—A Plan to Ensure our and capacity to manage in both
be carefully managed. Water Future to 2050, as well good and bad years.
as investigating how regional
Local councils, regional and
Climate change communities can diversify their
economic development boards,
water supply sources.
The potential effects of climate natural resources management
change on the regions range from In addition, state and local boards and the state government
threats to water supply, increased governments continue to investigate have been working with the
risk of bushfire and greater ways to organise land use such community, local groups and
fragmentation of native habitats to that it supports renewable and industry to develop effective
increased pressure on health care clean energy technologies. These strategies for specific sectors
services from more vulnerable opportunities will give South (for example, primary industries
people. Australia a competitive advantage and tourism) and specific parts of
in a carbon-constrained economy. the region (for example, individual
The state government believes Investment in infrastructure will be
it is critical to intervene now to towns and council areas) that
critical to realise such opportunities. will lead to a sustainable future
help the regions prepare for
and adapt to long-term climate These initiatives will extend the for the regions.
change. Securing water and life and reliability of our water and They recognise that population
energy supplies is fundamental energy supplies and allow the and economic growth must be
to economic, social and population and the economy to balanced with protection of the
environmental wellbeing in the grow without placing unsustainable environment, including biodiversity,
face of such change. demands on our natural resources. and retention of the regions’ unique
qualities for the benefit of future
generations and to attract and
retain skilled workers.
8THE CONTEXT
FOR THE PL AN
Chapter B
9THE CONTEXT
FOR THE PL AN
Chapter B
The Mid North region is crossed by South Australia’s `` Jamestown, which is
Chapter B THE CONTEX T FOR THE PL AN
major freight and tourism an important centre
at a glance routes, which link the region for Australian livestock
to Adelaide in the south; the production and sales
The Mid North region:
Flinders Ranges, the outback,
covers about 23,000 square `` Crystal Brook, Gladstone
Queensland and the Northern
kilometres, stretching from the and Eudunda, which
Territory in the north; and the
Clare and Gilbert valleys in support productive
Riverland, Murray Bridge,
the south, west to Port Pirie on grains and agribusiness
Broken Hill and New South
the Spencer Gulf, north to the industries
Wales to the east
Southern Flinders Ranges, and `` the Southern Flinders
north-east to the pastoral lands has a regional economy
Ranges, which is one
beyond Goyder’s Line 3 underpinned by primary
of the most popular
production and processing,
had a population of 40,096 nature-based and
light industry and tourism
people at the 2006 Census4 active adventure tourism
activities, which reflect the
destinations in the state,
has a major commercial and region’s variations in climate
with strong horticulture
service centre, Port Pirie, and landscapes. Highlights of
and forestry industries.
which contains 33 per cent of the region’s economy are:
the population; four important `` the world’s largest See Appendix 2 for detailed
towns—Clare, Peterborough, integrated lead-zinc- information about the Mid North
Jamestown and Crystal Brook silver smelter, which is region, including its population
—which contain 20 per cent located in Port Pirie and distribution, economy and
of the population; 15 smaller linked to mining activities infrastructure.
towns, which contain 16 per throughout Australia
cent of the population; and
other settlements and areas, `` the fertile soils,
which contain 31 per cent of internationally recognised
the population quality wines and verdant
landscapes of the Clare
Valley, which has attracted
steady population growth
`` the towns along the Burra
to Hawker road into the
Flinders Ranges, which
are rich in railway, mining
and pastoral heritage, as
3 Goyder’s Line originated in 1865 when the then
Surveyor-General of South Australia, George well as mineral resources
Goyder, drew a line of reliable rainfall to delineate and an emerging wind
cropping country south of the line from extensive
grazing land to the north. farm industry
4 Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2006 Census of
Population and Housing, ABS, Canberra, 2007.
10Key goals for the Encouraging the creation of Population and settlements
biodiversity corridors to support
Mid North region native flora and fauna
Valuing the region’s strong
sense of community spirit
The following goals were identified Ensuring development is
Discouraging residential
as critical to the region’s future appropriately located, and not in
development outside towns
during consultation with local areas that may adversely affect
government, industry groups and scenic landscapes. Catering for the needs of
communities. The goals, which an ageing population by
are key drivers for the Mid North developing a range of housing
Region Plan, are grouped under
Economic development alternatives around existing
four themes: Attracting and retaining a highly health and community services
skilled and flexible workforce
environment and culture Maintaining town character and
to ensure a stronger economic
economic development base heritage and promoting towns
and settlements with distinctive
population and settlements Developing an integrated plan built heritage and historical
to guide the expansion of importance to the state,
infrastructure and services
tourism, building on the region’s including Aboriginal heritage
provision.
character and natural assets and importance
Encouraging the development
Environment and culture Ensuring an adequate supply
of wind farms in appropriate of residential land for future
Reducing the reliance on locations and the training development, including
groundwater by developing of people in the region to maximising the use of surplus
strategies to re-use stormwater undertake their operation and farmhouses resulting from farm
and wastewater maintenance amalgamations
Planning for the impacts of Attracting industry to the Providing greater employment
climate change on the region’s region, particularly where there opportunities and challenges
environment, particularly low- is infrastructure capacity for to retain young people in the
lying coastal areas vulnerable growth (for example, electricity, region.
to rising sea levels and storm gas, roads, rail and shipping
surges, and on agricultural infrastructure)
production, infrastructure and
the regional economy Continuing to foster the
development and diversification
Ensuring development of primary industries, including
protects and preserves the viticulture
region’s environmental assets,
including native vegetation Supporting the sustainable
(within and outside national and adaptation of primary industries
conservation parks); coastal to climate change
and marine habitats; and water Positioning the region to
resources capitalise on the opportunities
arising from the expansion of
mining activities across the state.
11Infrastructure and services Maximising economic
Chapter B THE CONTEX T FOR THE PL AN
provision benefits by making the best
use of existing and planned
Improving the capacity of water infrastructure
and sewer infrastructure to
support population growth and Extending and upgrading
the expansion of tourism and access to broadband and
industry mobile phone services across
the entire region to support
Expanding local electricity industry and expand distance
generation through renewable education opportunities
energy sources, such as
wind farms and gas-fired Implementing a waste
peak demand plants, which management strategy,
will provide greater capacity including a central solid waste
for economic activity. This disposal site
will require expansion of the Considering opportunities
transmission infrastructure to for establishing community
service this growth sporting hubs, including the
Improving the information shared use of school facilities
and communication Supporting the development
technology (ICT) networks, and maintenance of social and
particularly broadband, to: community facilities, including
foster education, training and sporting, education, health and
professional development other facilities to service the
opportunities; enhance health local population.
delivery; and support industry
development
Planning for the expansion of
the transmission infrastructure
required to meet increased
electricity generation
12THE VISION FOR THE
MID NORTH REGION
Chapter C
13THE VISION FOR THE
MID NORTH REGION
Chapter C
An integrated approach The Plan allows for communities The aims of the vision are to:
Chapter C THE vision for the MID north region
to develop and grow, and manage the region’s population,
The Mid North Region Plan is a encourages initiatives that help with a focus on Port Pirie,
coordinated and integrated vision retain the special qualities of the Clare, Burra, Crystal Brook,
for land use and development Mid North while fostering vibrant Jamestown, Peterborough and
across the region. It responds to and distinctive towns that support Booleroo Centre
the opportunities and challenges a range of lifestyles. It supports
facing the region and identifies activities that benefit the local and increase industrial investment,
the planning priorities, principles regional economy, provide local focusing on the Port Pirie to
and policies necessary to achieve employment and attract people Peterborough corridor
the vision (refer to Map C1). to the region. It recognises the manage growth to protect
region’s variations in geographical natural and industry assets,
features, economic strengths and especially to the south of Burra
community aspirations, and seeks and Clare
to make the most of the different
opportunities each presents. It strengthen towns
seeks to balance the needs of increase active, nature-based
people today with those of future tourism, particularly in the
generations. Laura to Quorn corridor
retain built heritage and link it
with tourism, particularly along
the Clare and Burra to Hawker
corridors
enhance development of
renewable energy
promote/expand the region’s
viticulture industry.
14An integrated vision for the Mid North region Map C1
1516
principles and
policies
Chapter D
17principles and
policies
Chapter D
This chapter outlines the Under each theme the Plan While the policies and specific
Chapter D Principles and policies
principles and the policies that are identifies: targets of the Mid North Region
required to realise the vision for planning-related priorities for Plan may change over time, the
the Mid North region. These are councils (and the Minister principles will be a constant
set out under three themes: in out-of-council areas) to driving force for future generations
environment and culture consider when developing to ensure that the region has
Strategic Management Plans a world-leading approach to
economic development competitiveness, liveability,
and updating Development
population and settlements. Plans5 sustainability and resilience to
climate change.
principles to guide land-use
The contributions of these
planning and development
principles to South Australia’s
planning-related policies that Strategic Plan are described
provide ongoing direction to in Appendix 3.
councils (and which must be
reflected in their Development
Plans).
5 These priorities were identified during workshops
with local councils in 2007 and 2008.
18The principles are:
1 Recognise, protect and 7 Reinforce the region as a
restore the region’s preferred tourism destination
environmental assets
8 Provide and protect serviced
2 Protect people, property and well-sited industrial land
and the environment from to meet projected demand
exposure to hazards
9 Ensure commercial
3 Identify and protect places development is well sited and
of heritage and cultural designed to support the role
significance, and desired and function of towns
town character
10 Strategically plan and manage
4 Create the conditions for the town growth
region to adapt and become
11 Design towns to provide
resilient to the impacts of
safe, healthy, accessible and
climate change
appealing environments
5 Protect and build on
12 Provide land for a supply
the region’s strategic
of diverse, affordable and
infrastructure
sustainable housing to meet
6 Retain and strengthen the the needs of current and
economic potential of future residents and visitors.
primary production land
19environment and culture
Overview Environment Protection Authority Priorities for councils
Chapter D Principles and policies
policies, codes of practice and
The Mid North's environmental Incorporate information from
guidelines; the Living Coast
and cultural assets, underpinned environmental studies (for
Strategy for South Australia (2004);
by a range of existing plans, example, on biodiversity, the
Coast Protection Board Policy
strategies and agreements, effects of climate change
Document (2002); No Species
are essential to the region's and dry-land salinity) into
Loss—A Nature Conservation
development. Settlements and the review and update of
Strategy for South Australia 2007–
industry are inextricably linked Development Plans, including
2017; Tackling Climate Change:
to climate and water resources, the identification of areas of
South Australia’s Greenhouse
as well as land- and water- high biodiversity value
Strategy 2007–2020; Wetlands
dependent ecosystems. As well, Maintain local heritage registers
Strategy for South Australia (2003);
heritage sites and structures of and identify heritage-listed sites
Marine Planning Framework
significance provide an essential in Development Plans
for South Australia; and Marine
sense of identity and connection
Protected Areas program. Further improve understanding
with place.
The Mid North Region Plan seeks of the impacts of climate
The design, siting and change on natural resources
to ensure that future land-use
management of development and habitats to inform
directions complement these
must prevent adverse impacts future strategic planning for
documents. It contains land-use
on environmental and cultural development and land use
principles and policies to guide
assets and minimise the exposure
future development in a manner Incorporate the recommendations
of people, property and the
that: of the Port Pirie tenby10 project6
environment to danger from
hazards such as floods and protects biodiversity and areas into local strategic planning and
bushfires. It is also important of environmental sensitivity, Development Plans
to achieve sustainable levels of including coastal areas Investigate the sustainable
demand for water and energy, supports the management of limits of water use, and use
particularly in light of the projected the region’s natural resources this information to inform
impacts of climate change. Development Plans
prepares the region for the
Several state government policies, Develop a flood risk mitigation
impacts of climate change
guidelines and plans provide plan for Port Pirie, taking into
guidance on environmental ensures that development account the impacts of climate
management of the region, appropriately responds to change, such as rising sea
including the Northern and Yorke hazards and risks levels and extreme rainfall and
Regional Natural Resources rainfall run-off events.
helps preserve the region’s
Management Plan (2009);
heritage, including Aboriginal
heritage.
6 The tenby10 project aimed to reduce the blood
lead levels in Port Pirie's children: the goal was
for at least 95 per cent children aged 0 to 4 to
have a blood lead level below ten micrograms per
decilitre of blood by the end of 2010. At the time
of publication the project was being reviewed.
20Environment and culture Map D1
21Principle 1 Policies Coastal, estuarine and
Chapter D Principles and policies
1.1 Protect the quality and marine environments
Recognise, protect and function of water ecosystems Good management of coastal
restore the region’s by preventing the adverse areas and the marine environment
environmental assets impacts of land use and is essential for the survival of a
development such as the range of species, including some
overuse of resources,
Water erosion, land degradation
unique to the region.
The region has several water and pollution. The Upper Spencer Gulf is vitally
ecosystems, ranging from important to the overall health of
1.2 Apply water-sensitive urban the local marine environment. The
watercourses to mangrove swamps
design principles (see Box Gulf’s wetland system is included
and tidal estuaries on the coast.
1) and appropriate buffers in A Directory of Important
The main water catchments include
to ensure development Wetlands in Australia7, acts as
Willochra Creek, Mambray Coast,
does not affect natural a fish nursery, and provides
Broughton River, Light River, Burra
watercourses and drainage physical protection from coastal
Creek and Wakefield River.
patterns. waters.
The two main watercourses are
the Broughton and Wakefield 1.3 Encourage water harvesting Of all the coastal areas of the
rivers. Both are characterised initiatives where ecologically Northern and Yorke Peninsula
by highly variable flow, with appropriate. coast, the extensive salt marsh
ephemeral channels, permanent 1.4 Pursue water-use efficiency areas at the head of the Gulf
spring-fed pools and some through the built form at both have the highest priority for
continuously flowing sections. house and town level by conservation.8 Salt marsh
The Clare Valley Prescribed Water using water-sensitive urban complexes are home to important
Resources Area is the only such design techniques. fish nursery habitats, and are
prescribed area in the region. also particularly vulnerable to sea
level rise. Land will be required to
Rising groundwater levels in some
support these nurseries as tide
cleared areas have resulted in
levels rise.
dry-land salinity.
Land-use and development
decisions must support the
ongoing health of water-
dependent ecosystems.
7 Environment Australia, A Directory of Important
Wetlands in Australia, Third Edition, Environment
Australia, Canberra, 2001.
8 Department for Environment and Heritage,
Conservation Assessment of the Northern and
Yorke Coast, DEH, Adelaide, 2007.
22Major wetland areas, which Marine plans have been put into operation to encompass
include mangroves, seagrass and developed to ensure that future multiple uses and activities.
salt marsh habitat, are found in development and use of the These marine plans and parks will
coastal areas, particularly south marine environment is sustainable. complement planning strategies
of Port Pirie. The grey mangroves Marine parks and aquatic reserve and need to be taken into account
(Avicennia marina) in this region areas have recently been declared in the review and updating of
form what is considered to be one and specific zoning plans will be Development Plans.
of the largest undisturbed stands
of the species remaining in South Box 1—Water-sensitive urban design (WSUD)
Australia.
Good management of coastal
areas and the marine environment WSUD techniques help to improve water quality and quantity,
is essential for the survival of and reduce flood risk in urban areas, while enhancing biodiversity.
a range of species, including They can be incorporated into development projects across a
some unique to the region. A range of types and scales, including homes, streets, parking
key objective of the State NRM areas, subdivisions and multi-units, commercial and industrial
Plan is that by 2015 there will be developments, and public land. The techniques include:
no further net loss of wetland or
estuary extent or condition than permeable paving of footpaths, common areas and parking
that experienced in 2006, when spaces above underground water storage facilities
the NRM plan was released. water efficient fittings and appliances
Aboriginal sites and objects maintaining fixtures (for example, stopping leaks and drips
near the coast, in dunes and from plumbing and taps)
in the waters are protected by
green roofs and living walls (that is, plantings on roofs and
legislation.
down walls)
The Department for Environment
appropriate landscaping (for example, efficient irrigation,
and Heritage (DEH) 9 is developing
mulching, wind and sun protection, minimising lawn area
management frameworks and
and selection of suitable plants)
guidelines that will help to ensure
that future development and use wetlands to capture and treat run-off water
of the marine environment is the capture and storage of rainwater and stormwater for
sustainable. They will complement residential re-use, or to irrigate parks, sporting fields and
the Planning Strategy and need other open space
to be considered when reviewing
and updating Development Plans. the capture, treatment and re-use of wastewater.
More information about WSUD principles and techniques can be
found in the WSUD Technical Manual for Greater Adelaide, available
at . Although the manual
focuses on Greater Adelaide, many WSUD techniques can be applied
9 DEH became the Department of Environment and
Natural Resources (DENR) in June 2010. in the Mid North Region.
23Policies Box 2—What is a coastal zone?
Chapter D Principles and policies
1.5 Protect coastal, marine
and estuarine areas of
conservation, landscape and Coastal zones in Development Plans incorporate:
environmental significance coastal features and habitats that are highly sensitive to the
by limiting development direct impacts of development, including coastal dunes, coastal
in these areas. In limited wetlands, samphire (tidal marsh), mangrove areas and estuaries
circumstances, development
may require such a location important coastal geological features and other natural features
(for example, a development of scientific, educational, heritage or cultural importance
of state significance), in buffers separating development from sensitive coastal habitats
which case the social and or important marine fauna sites
economic benefits must be
areas where exposure to coastal hazards (such as seawater
demonstrated to outweigh
flooding or erosion) has not been addressed (for example, by a
the environmental and
seawall or a strategy to protect development)
amenity impacts.
coast protection measures such as erosion buffer areas, seawalls
1.6 Protect coastal features and and levee banks
biodiversity by establishing
coastal zones (see Box 2) high-quality coastal landscapes and land of rural character that
that incorporate: provides a backdrop to the coast.
`` habitats that are highly Areas not required to be in a coastal zone include: conservation
sensitive to the direct areas that do not have coastal sensitive features and habitats;
impacts of development landscapes that provide a backdrop to the coast but do not include
coastal features; areas where exposure to coastal hazards has been
`` important geological and/
addressed; and farming or primary production land.
or natural features of
scientific, educational or Source: Eyre Peninsula Local Government Association, Eyre Peninsula Coastal Development
cultural importance Strategy, 2007.
`` landscapes of very high
scenic quality.
1.7 Integrate into Development
`` marine parks under the `` relevant provisions of the
Plans coastal management
Marine Parks Act 2007 River Murray Act 2003
requirements, including:
`` aquatic reserve areas `` relevant provisions of
`` coast protection policies
under the Fisheries the Natural Resources
under the Coast Protection
Management Act 2007 Management Act 2004.
Act 1972
24Land biodiversity Box 3 – Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act
The Mid North region consists of
predominantly land-based habitats,
which are mainly woodlands and Applicants for and proponents of development may be responsible
tussock grasslands. for forwarding development proposals to the Commonwealth
Environment Minister. The Minister is responsible for determining if
The Northern Agricultural Districts
the action is a controlled action under the Environment Protection
Biodiversity Plan (DEH, 2001)
and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Commonwealth), and
identifies threatened habitat areas
subject to assessment and approval processes under the Act.
that have been extensively cleared
of vegetation and are poorly
conserved, such as the Mid North
grasslands. Unless protected and
restored, some plant and animal Policies `` areas of environmental
species in this area are threatened significance, including
1.8 Improve development
with extinction. Targeted restoration habitat areas and lands that
certainty and transparency
and retention of the remnant have human uses, such
by introducing a clear
vegetation are critical to maintain as primary production, but
hierarchy of environmental
biodiversity in the Mid North. also support biodiversity
areas to be protected,
The retention and management and incorporate the because the uses are of
of native vegetation and habitats protection of these areas relatively low environmental
on private and public land are into Development Plans. impact. Higher impact land
important to reverse the negative The three categories in the uses in these areas should
effects of grazing and other hierarchy, which will be be avoided. If development
human activities. These effects managed through Structure cannot be avoided, the
include poorer soils, higher rates Plans and Development impacts will be minimised
of erosion and habitat loss, and Plans, are: and offsets provided
the introduction of pest plants, `` areas designated for
animals and pathogens. `` areas of high environmental
significance, including human use, where
To protect the region’s biodiversity, protected public lands human use is the
ecological investigations and (such as National Parks principal consideration.
impact assessments should and Conservation Parks), Development is to
be undertaken in areas that private/public lands under be consistent with
are proposed for rezoning or a Heritage Agreement, and Development Plans and
development. land containing high-value existing legislation.
Some developments may also native vegetation. These
require assessment by the areas will be protected
Commonwealth (see Box 3). from development unless
a specific regulatory
exemption applies
251.9 Recognise areas of high Scenic landscapes Policies
Chapter D Principles and policies
biodiversity value, and locate 1.12 Acknowledge, protect and
Attention must be given to
and design development to manage areas of significant
the planning and design of
prevent the loss, degradation landscape and amenity
development to ensure that
and fragmentation of native value, including landscapes
significant landscapes and their
vegetation, and any loss that form attractive
associated views—both from the
of species and ecological backgrounds and entrances
land and the sea—are retained.
communities. to towns and tourist
The incremental approval
1.10 Provide for environmental of individual developments, developments.
connections to link areas of including minor additions and 1.13 Avoid development in areas
high biodiversity value and maintenance activities, has with significant landscapes
create buffers as a means of resulted in the degradation of that can be viewed from
managing the interface with scenic resources in the past. It is tourist routes, walking trails,
conservation areas. important that Development Plan the beach and the sea,
updates reassess landscapes
1.11 Avoid any adverse impact unless the development
and associated views and devise requires such a location (for
on biodiversity, where
measures to ensure their protection. example, a development
possible. If such impact
is unavoidable, it should The region is defined by its of state significance), in
be minimised and offset. landscapes, from the rugged which case the scale, height,
A comprehensive offset mountains and Conservation Parks design and siting
scheme, based on existing of the Southern Flinders Ranges of buildings must:
offset provisions and drawing eastward to rolling hills and rustic
`` protect views to, from
on models such as bio- plains. The landscapes are an
and along the ocean and
banking, will be developed essential part of Aboriginal culture,
scenic coastal areas
to provide for a net gain to and are also highly valued by locals
biodiversity through flexible and visitors. `` minimise the alteration
offsets. Offsets could be Particular attention needs to be of natural landforms
made across regions or given to retaining the significant `` be visually compatible
by funding designated landscapes of the Southern with the character of
rehabilitation programs. Flinders Ranges and the Clare surrounding areas
wine region when planning and
designing development. `` restore and enhance
visual quality in degraded
The concern for scenic landscapes areas, where feasible.
should be balanced with the
appropriate development of
renewable energy via wind farms.
261.14 Avoid adverse impacts Principle 2 Policies
of development on 2.1 Design and plan development
landscapes through site Protect people, property to prevent the creation of
selection and design that and the environment from hazards and to avoid naturally
reduces the height or bulk
of structures. (Note that exposure to hazards occurring hazards.
landscape screening to 2.2 Decrease the risk of loss
mitigate the visual impacts Hazards can occur naturally or of life and property from
of development is not a result from development activity. extreme bushfires by
substitute for re-siting or Inappropriately located or creating buffers around
re-design). designed development and land new growth areas that are
uses can increase the exposure adjacent to native bushland.
to and impact of hazards,
including flooding, erosion, 2.3 Develop other policies to
disturbance of acid sulfate soils, minimise the impact of
bushfires, salinity, landslides, site extreme bushfires in line
contamination, and water, air and with the findings of the 2009
noise pollution. The impacts of Victorian Bushfires Royal
climate change, such as sea level Commission.
rise and extreme weather events, 2.4 Develop partnerships and
are likely to increase the risk of agreements between state
hazards. Better development and local government
planning and control measures (particularly with emergency
can contribute to reducing services agencies) to
risks and hazards, but cannot address identified risks and
eliminate them. hazards and protect the
health and wellbeing of
the community.
272.5 Integrate policies, standards `` protect human health `` Adaptation—designing
Chapter D Principles and policies
and actions on adaptation and the environment buildings and
to climate change, where contamination infrastructure to minimise
disaster risk reduction and has occurred risk in the long term
hazard avoidance into
`` adopt appropriate `` Avoidance—avoiding
Strategic Management
processes and methods permanent development
Plans, Development Plan
when remediating in and adjacent to areas
policies and development
contaminated land and at unacceptable risk from
assessment processes using
ensure its suitability for hazards.
best practice models to:
the proposed zoning
2.7 Identify and rehabilitate
`` reduce the social,
`` address risk, hazard and areas and sites where land
environmental and
emergency management is contaminated as part of
economic impacts arising
for new and existing development processes.
from extreme events
urban areas.
2.8 Ensure new development
`` achieve more consistent
2.6 Protect people, property is appropriately sited to
and rigorous decision-
and the environment minimise the risk to people
making for long-term
from exposure to hazards and property from landfill
land-use planning aimed
(including coastal flooding, gas emissions. Continue
at reducing emergency
erosion, dune drift and to monitor emissions from
and hazard risks
acid sulfate soils) by landfill sites to ensure
`` enhance protection of designing and planning for development is not placed
critical infrastructure development in accordance at unnecessary risk.
with the following principles:
`` develop building
standards and urban `` Protection—establishing
design approaches works to protect existing
that create resilient development or facilitate
environments for the major development
future (including stormwater
discharge management
`` reduce risks and protect
to accommodate higher
natural areas and
tide levels)
biodiversity
28Principle 3 The Aboriginal Affairs and Policies
Reconciliation Division (AARD) of 3.1 Protect and conserve places
Identify and protect places the state government maintains of heritage and cultural value,
of heritage and cultural a register of Aboriginal sites including national, state and
and objects. Although the list is
significance, and desired not comprehensive, all sites are
local registered sites.
town character protected under the Aboriginal 3.2 Identify the desired
Heritage Act 1988, which prohibits character for towns and
Heritage and cultural buildings and any damage, disturbance or parts of towns, and ensure
places give the region a distinct interference with the sites, objects that the design of buildings
character that is linked to its role or remains without authorisation and public places, such as
in South Australian history. These from the Minister for Aboriginal streetscapes and entrances,
sites enliven history, engender a Affairs and Reconciliation. supports the desired
sense of identity, and allow people character.
Aboriginal people and the
to associate themselves with the AARD should be involved early 3.3 Identify and protect sites
past, which can help guide us in the in planning and development that have Aboriginal cultural
future. It is essential that heritage processes to assist in identifying significance and seek
places be identified, protected, and protecting sites of cultural guidance from Aboriginal
managed and preserved to retain significance and for guidance people and the Aboriginal
their heritage value. in relation to native title and Affairs and Reconciliation
Non-Aboriginal heritage places Indigenous Land Use Agreement Division in relation to native
of national and state significance (ILUA) requirements. title and ILUA requirements.
are generally readily identified
because they are registered under
various Acts. The community
should be involved in determining
the desired character of places of
local and heritage significance.
29Principle 4 Energy supply is limited in many Policies
Chapter D Principles and policies
parts of the region. Building 4.1 Promote carbon sequestration
Create the conditions for design and innovative local and greenhouse gas
the region to adapt and solutions (for example, solar, mitigation through land-use
wind and co-generation) can
become resilient to the make the best use of energy
management practices
(for example, reintroducing
impacts of climate change supplies. There are opportunities vegetation and restoring
to further develop wind farms habitat), taking into account
Reduced rainfall in recent years is in several locations across the climate and soil suitability
affecting the region’s agricultural central and southern parts of the and species characteristics.
and horticultural activities, as region, which would facilitate the
well as the recharge of aquifers, achievement of SASP targets 4.2 Provide buffer areas
and also may affect the tourism related to renewable energy of sufficient width to
industry. It is predicted that the development. separate development
trend of diminished rainfall will from the foreshore and
The increase of industrial,
continue. coastal features and to
residential and tourism-related
accommodate long-term
There are opportunities to make development will place further
physical coastal processes.
positive, long-lasting changes to pressure on both energy and
the region’s water management. water supplies. It is important 4.3 Provide the opportunity
Economically and technologically that Development Plan policy for town- and settlement-
feasible measures are readily supports the natural resources level energy efficiency
available to provide the water management regime under the through the promotion of
needed for the future. A well- Natural Resources Management alternative energy supplies
managed water supply includes Act 2004. Raising awareness (for example, embedded
water-efficient technologies and among residents and visitors generation).
approaches that can save or about the need to manage
4.4 Provide for the development
reduce water consumption. While demand for water and energy is
of alternative and innovative
not yet mandated for country also essential to achieving South
energy generation (for
areas, WSUD principles should Australia’s water and energy
example, wind, solar, marine,
be incorporated into all new efficiency targets (see box 4).
biomass and geothermal
development. It is envisaged that
technologies) and water
by 2013 South Australia will have
supply facilities, as well as
developed and implemented
guidance on environmental
the best regulatory approach
assessment requirements.
to mandate WSUD, as well as
targets.
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