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Issue No. 94
March 2013
new planner
Getting the
balance right:
our natural assets
ISSN 1324-8669 PP a233-867-00015
2013 NSW LOCAL GOVERNMENT
PLANNERS’ NETWORK FORUM
NEW
directions:
taking planning into the next generation
28 - 30 August 2013,
Parklands Resort & Conference Centre, Mudgee
The Planning Institute of Australia, NSW Division is
calling for papers for the 2013 LGPN Forum. A new
planning system for the State provides opportunities for
new thinking, new processes and a new approach to
how we work and think as planning professionals.
CALL FOR PAPERS
Do you have a relevant project or initiative that you would like to
share? Do you have a project or an idea which takes planning in a
new direction?
We are inviting expressions of interest for the presentation of papers
on one or more of the forum themes, as outlined below. Papers which
focus on case studies and tools for planning, in particular practical
examples and implications for local planning, are encouraged.
The key themes for the Forum are:
People - educating our planners; changing the culture of planning;
planning for children, an ageing population and for liveable and
connected communities
Processes – what a new planning Act and planning system will
mean; technology and planning
Places – creating viable regions, our landscapes, case studies on
unique developments.
Your paper or outline should include:
• Title of paper and relevant conference subtheme/s
• Brief outline of the main issue or focus (no more than 100 words)
• Statement of relevance of or outcome from your presentation
• A brief biographical statement of no more than 50 words and
contact details on the author/presenter.
Expressions of interest should be sent to the PIA NSW Office no
later than Friday 5 April 2013. If you have any questions please
contact the NSW Executive Officer on 02 8904 1011 or email
nswmanager@planning.org.au
The Forum also provides numerous sponsorship opportunities. For
more information or a Sponsorship Prospectus, please contact the
PIA NSW Office on 02 8904 1011 or email nswmanager@planning.org.au
Contents
This issue
Issue 83
contents
Guest Editorial - Steve O’Connor 4 Postcard from Indonesia 22
President’s Message 5 Inbox 24
Executive Officer’s Report 6 International Snippets 25
Planning Perspectives 7 Healthy Built Environments 26
Norton Rose Review 8 In the Courts 27
Infrastructure Matters 9 13 in 2013 28
The Urban Renewal of Newcastle 10 BasePlan 30
Australia’s Green Cauldron 13 NSW Consulting Planners 32
Tweed Coastal Hazards 16 NSW 2012 Awards - the winners 33
Women and planning 17 In the news 34
New Strategic Regional Land Use Plans 18 Snapped 35
Working in our National Parks 20
Editorial Team
Nicole Philps
Brigitte Buchholz
Andrew Wheeler
Robyn Vincin
Each quarter New Planner invites a Guest Editor to comment
Editorial on the theme of that issue.
NSW Executive Officer
PO Box 484, North Sydney NSW 2059 Contributors
Suite 3, 221 Miller St, North Sydney NSW 2060 Deadline for June 2013 edition is:
Tel: 02 8904 1011 Fax: 02 8904 1133 Friday 3 May 2013. The theme for June 2013 is “The value
Email: nswmanager@planning.org.au of planning”. (Themes: planning education; growing your
planning career; PIA culture of planning project).
Email: nswmanager@planning.org.au
The views expressed in New Planner
are those of the authors and do not Design and Production
necessarily reflect the views of the Nationwide Advertising Group
Planning Institute of Australia. Tel: 02 9955 4777 Fax 02 9955 7055
Email: wsmith@npadvert.com.au
Cover Photo: Stephen O’Connor
Subscriptions 2013
New Planner is available on subscription to non members of PIA NSW at a cost of $88 per annum,GST inclusive.
Email: nswadmin@planning.org.au
newplanner | MARCH 2013 | 3
Editorial
Steve O’Connor Guest Editorial
to the physical environment in NSW. naturally occurring vegetation only 9%
Of the 83 indicators in SoE 2012, over half are is in relatively natural condition;
rated as fair (49), another 20 are rated as good • habitat destruction and invasive species
and just 14 are rated as poor (the condition of are the greatest threat to biodiversity
3 indicators is classed as unknown due to a in NSW; and the overall diversity and
lack of information to make an assessment). richness of native species remains
There are a number of positive trends to note under threat with 35 new species listed
including; as “Threatened” since 2009.
• since 2009 the use of renewable energy So it appears that the environment is generally
sources has doubled and the total in good shape with the exception of biodiversity
number of kilometres travelled by private where there are still significant challenges.
cars has declined; However, the reserve system in NSW now covers
8.8% of the State and a higher percentage of
• the consumption of water in Sydney bioregions and vegetation classes are represented
This edition of New Planner is the first in continues to decline in per capita terms in reserves than ever before. Interestingly, the
a year which should see the introduction (down over 10% or 40 litres from 343 observation is made in SoE 2012 that the reserve
of a much anticipated new Planning Act in litres/ person/ day in 2004); system is being increasingly supplemented by off-
NSW. After over 30 years it seems the time • air quality is improving with national reserve conservation across other land tenures.
is right for the Environmental Planning standards met for most regulated air This last point is something which many planners
and Assessment Act 1979 to take its place pollutants; in NSW are well aware of and in some cases
in history. At the time of sending this • the State’s soil resources are in fair actively involved in.
edition to the publisher the long overdue condition and land management The range of articles you will find in this edition
practices are broadly sustainable; not only cover the natural environment but also
White Paper had not been released.
• significantly increased environmental provide commentary on planning initiatives by
The theme for this edition is “Getting the the State government aimed at securing the
water flows are now released to improve
Balance Right” and we have sought to place balance between conflicting land uses and
the health of rivers and wetlands;
this in a Natural Resource context. In line giving a much needed boost to urban renewal.
with this theme, I thought it would be worth • the marine environment is generally
taking a quick look at the recently published considered to be in good health; and Within this edition of New Planner you are
New South Wales State of the Environment sure to find something of value which we hope
• clearing of native vegetation has stabilised.
Report 2012 (SoE 2012). Every three years for will be a useful prelude to the forthcoming
To counter balance the good news there are a debate as a new planning bill negotiates its
the past twenty years the State government number of disturbing statistics/ trends including;
has produced a report which tells us what the way through both houses of parliament and
trends are and the state of play when it comes • while 61% of NSW is still covered by we turn our minds to implementation Q
4 | MARCH 2013 | newplanner
President’s message
Sarah Hill, President PIA NSW Division
editorial
into the establishment of independent of economic viability in determining
committees to review planning systems development applications. This is despite
(Victoria), refinements to existing Acts increasingly common practice in the
(Queensland and the UK) as well as land UK to use development feasibility as a
use zones (Victoria) in addition to complete consideration in the decision making
re-writes of existing Acts (NSW and the UK). process (i.e. in the context of affordable
A review of existing legislation across housing or other contributions) as
these four planning jurisdictions finds mandated by the London Plan since 2004.
that traditionally each have referenced To date the legislation and reforms in both
‘economic impacts’ as a consideration Queensland and Victoria have also been
Well sadly the summer holidays in plan making whilst NSW and Victoria silent on these matters leading to the
are officially over and as February stipulate it as a matter to be considered question whether these jurisdictions will
progresses, you are no doubt back to the in the assessment of development also start to incorporate these concepts.
important job of planning. This led me applications. In all cases, references to An interesting comparison relates to
to thinking about our increasingly busy economic impacts have been passive i.e. another one of my favourite topics – the
in the case of the EP&A Act 1979 when we culture of planning. The UK Government
lives and that most planners would agree have been required to “ensure the orderly is strongly committed to a positive change
there is little merit in reinventing the and economic use of land” or that is in planning culture, having advanced
wheel. In this regard most of us would mindful of the likely “economic impact”. the concept over the past few years. The
recognise the value in reviewing and Increasingly, and certainly since the influence NSW Green Paper leads on the concept in
learning from the experience of other of the GFC, this context is changing with a an Australian context linking the merits
more active reference to the need to ensure of a new planning culture with positive
planners and planning jurisdictions. economic change (Page 86).
plans facilitate economic viability and that
In my mind, the planning reform process planning is used as an enabling tool to I maintain however that this benefit can
should be no different – there is great benefit achieve economic growth (i.e. NSW Green only be achieved by a planning culture that
in learning about how planning systems in Paper, UK National Planning Framework). promotes the ongoing training, mentoring
other states or countries have adapted to Ironically however, whilst the frequency of and guidance of its professionals. This
changing lifestyle and economic conditions. references to economic factors has increased is particularly important in relation to
This allows us to better understand what in each jurisdiction’s legislation, there economic concepts such as development
has worked – and I would argue most remains a lack of definition as to what it viability, market demand and financial
importantly, what has not. Learning from actually means. viability that are rapidly expanding concepts
these lessons, NSW can have greater in our planning remit. A remit which to
confidence in being bold and innovative whilst Since 2008 the use of the concept in the
UK has expanded at a rapid rate, with date has had little guidance or clarity with
taking the next step to designing a planning respect to the scope or implications of these
system that can effectively and proactively the National Planning Policy Framework
stipulating that local planning authorities concepts in our brave new planning world.
adapt to our changing communities and
climates over the next 30 years. must ensure that the cumulative impacts In summary, my comparative research
of local and national planning policies identifies some important shift changes
In this context, I recently undertook some do not hinder the implementation of in the planning world that have emerged
research in an area of great interest development and importantly that plans either as a result of, or concurrently with,
to me – the economics of planning “should facilitate development throughout the downturn in the economic climate. The
and more specifically how it relates to the economic cycle.” In this regard plans extent to which the new planning system
planning reform. I found that consistently can only be based on available evidence and for NSW takes forward matters concerning
and convincingly across many planning any proposed community infrastructure levy the economics of planning, development
jurisdictions in Australia and internationally charges must be consistent with the plan viability, cultural change and community
there has been a growing reference to, and tested as part of the evidence base. stakeholder engagement are however
and recognition of, the interrelationship yet to be seen as we all eagerly await the
between economics and planning. National planning policy in the UK and
the NSW Green Paper remain silent release of the Government’s White Paper.
The rhetoric has also been translated however with respect to the consideration For now, it’s back to the planning day job Q
newplanner | MARCH 2013 | 5
Executive Officer’s report
Robyn Vincin, PIA NSW Executive Officer
New directions: taking planning Other major events coming up this year
into the next generation - LGPN include the Young Planners Forum in May,
a number of regional seminars which are
Forum 2013. Planning is well under coordinated through our Branches, and
way for our key event for the year –we’re
networking events supported by our major
heading to Mudgee from 28-30th August.
sponsors. Watch for the announcement of
There is a Call for Papers in this issue
our annual Planners Dinner in June.
of New Planner, and we look forward
to showcasing some of the great work For those members looking to commence
being done across NSW. The Team at or to complete their CPP requirements,
Planning review update Mid-Western Regional Council are looking there are now a number of flexible
The ‘big ticket’ item again this forward to welcoming planners from across options, including the option to study
local government, consultancies, State by correspondence. Please contact our
year will be the review of the NSW
Government agencies and related fields, Lifelong Learning Team to discuss a study
planning system. PIA continues and are busy organising a number of field path to suit you.
to be involved through the formal trips and social events for you.
submission process, a number of Partnering with PIA
Professional development
stakeholder meetings and in making Sponsorship of PIA NSW brings you to the
representations on behalf of our As the New Year begins, it is a good time forefront in the planning industry. You can
members. Associated with the to review your professional development develop vital relationships with industry
plan and think about the areas you need to leaders and build brand recognition for
review is PIA’s strong commitment to develop. PIA offers a range of professional your company. We have designed the
addressing the culture of planning; development opportunities and works sponsorship and advertising packages to
essential if there is to be real change in in partnership with other agencies in offer your business excellent exposure to
how planners and planning operate and promoting external courses. These are the planning industry, no matter what your
are perceived in NSW. The Institute is advertised through our fortnightly eNews. choice. We ensure you receive maximum
value and are happy to tailor a package
keen to have your input to these issues Following positive feedback from our 2012
to suit your business’ marketing needs.
if we are to make change happen. Toolbox series, we are running a new set
Please contact me for more information.
of evening seminars in 2013. Details of the
We continue to advocate for a system which sessions are in our fortnightly eNews and
meets the needs of all parties - it is critical on our website. Our programs are offered A voice for Members
that this new system is one that will take to PIA members at a discounted price. Finally, we have been excited with the
NSW forward, and it is important that we get renewed interest in New Planner – this
it right. PIA will continue to advocate for full In response to calls from regional planners,
we have put a regional program together quarterly magazine is your voice and we
and proper consultation and communication welcome your input. We’re always pleased to
on the White Paper and the review of for 2013. In addition to quarterly meetings
in the Northern and Illawarra South Coast consider short articles, either on the theme
policies, procedures and related processes. of a particular issue, or short opinion pieces
region, we have scheduled a regional
Of course, we will continue to monitor and toolbox at Taree in March. This is the first of relevance to our industry. Remember, if
respond to other key policy areas, through of its kind and we will be looking at the you’re looking to advertise your business,
submissions, attendance at workshops and model, if successful, as one we can deliver consider running an advertisement in New
forums, and working groups. Led by our in other regional locations. Suggestions for Planner. We’re always happy to talk about
Hunter Branch and Transport Chapter, we future topics and presenters are welcome. the best options for you. The theme for the
are currently preparing a submission on June issue is The value of planning – we
the Newcastle Urban Renewal Strategy. Our programs would not be possible look forward to your contributions.
The NSW Policy Committee meets every without the input of our Regional
Committees and our Members who give We hope 2013 is a professionally rewarding
second month, and if you would like to year for you – we know planners are busy
contribute either formally through the freely of their time and who share their
knowledge and experience. We thank them people and we look forward to working on
Committee or informally, depending on the your behalf and to meeting up with you at
issue, please contact me. on your behalf.
some time during the year Q
6 | MARCH 2013 | newplanner
Planning Perspectives –
The Coal Seam Gas Debate
Steve O’Connor, KDC and ERM Australia
review
Prior to the NSW Coalition being
elected to government it widely
circulated its Strategic Regional
Land Use Policy which sets out its
position in relation to the issue of
Coal Seam Gas (CSG). While the
policy does state at page 2 that the
“NSW Liberals and Nationals believe
that agricultural land and other
sensitive areas exist in NSW where
mining and coal seam gas extraction
should not occur.” However the policy
goes on to state at page 5 that “The
balanced existence of the mining and
petroleum sector and agricultural
production shouldn’t force a binary
choice but should necessitate careful
management.”
It should come as no surprise therefore
the two Strategic Regional Land Use Plans
which have been finalised and adopted by
the NSW Government (for the Upper Hunter
and New England North West regions), put
Prime viticultural land like this could qualify as Strategic Agricultural Land
this policy into practice by not prohibiting
CSG extraction in areas considered to
constitute Strategic Agricultural Land
Increasing Gas Prices affected by CSG extraction techniques.
(SAL). This includes industry clusters for
There is evidence from overseas
industries like the equine and viticultural Queensland is where much of the gas which raises real concerns about the
industries. The photograph illustrates good NSW uses has traditionally come from CSG industry and its ability to meet
quality viticultural land in NSW which could however, this is about to change. The environmental and regulatory standards.
fall within such a cluster and be classified liquefied natural gas (LNG) plants under
as SAL. construction in places like Gladstone will Conclusions
soon see gas from Queensland exported
State Infrastructure Strategy overseas. Higher international prices make Anyone who thought that the controversy
this a more attractive option than servicing surrounding CSG may soon subside needs
The recently released State
domestic markets. Australian consumers to think again. As INSW has pointed out
Infrastructure Strategy (SIS), which
are already paying more for their gas and this industry could be a key ingredient in
has had most of its recommendations
this trend will continue as gas is exported “Making NSW Number One Again” (the
endorsed by the NSW Government, has
overseas. slogan used by the NSW Coalition in its
some interesting things to say about
election campaign). The sorry state of the
CSG. At page 154 of the SIS it states
The viability of CSG production projects will NSW Government’s finances could be given
“Infrastructure NSW considers that
improve as the price of gas rises making it a much needed boost if the CSG industry
the development of the Coal Seam Gas
an even more lucrative investment option. can fulfil the vision set out in the SIS of
(CSG) industry will be game changing for
This is why companies like AGL and Santos moving NSW from being in a position as a
NSW, providing a number of strategic
have been so active exploring CSG deposits net importer of gas to a net exporter.
benefits.” It goes on to say “The vastness
around Australia.
of the reserves has the potential to Many of the jobs created in this new
provide gas to other Australian states The Threat to Natural Systems industry will be in regional areas of the
and for export to overseas markets.” state which adds momentum to the
One of the key reasons environmental arguments in favour of encouraging and
Clearly Infrastructure NSW (INSW) groups and agricultural interests are supporting this industry. Future Strategic
recognizes the potential that CSG can so vocal in their opposition to the CSG Regional Land Use Plans for those regions
play in transforming the NSW economy as industry, is potential for groundwater outside the Upper Hunter and New England
currently NSW imports the vast majority of systems to be impacted by the fraccing North West regions are likely to leave the
the gas it uses from other states (around process used by the CSG industry. The door open for the CSG industry to put
95%). The shift from this scenario to one extraction of underground gas reserves is its case forward and demonstrate that it
where NSW supplies its own domestic a delicate process and the aquifers which can live side by side with agriculture and
market and exports surplus gas interstate natural areas, farming communities and other land uses without any detrimental
and overseas is a monumental one. others rely upon can be deleteriously consequences Q
newplanner | MARCH 2013 | 7
Norton Rose Review
Recent developments in coastal management and planning law
Jacinta Studdert Partner, Felicity Rourke Partner, Rosemary Bullmore Associate, Environment and Planning
Group, Norton Rose Australia
Jacinta Studdert Peter Rigg Felicity Rourke
The balance between providing Additionally, the restriction that works responsible for determining sea level rise
for development, while preserving may only be authorised for up to 2 planning benchmarks specific to their local
years has been lifted for works on circumstances.
our natural assets is always under private land.
particular pressure along the NSW Councils will need to carefully consider
coast. The NSW Government has been The present, Code of Practice under how they set sea level rise planning
the Coastal Protection Act 1979, which benchmarks and assess applications for
grappling with this challenge over specified requirements for such works development consent under the EP&A
recent years, which has resulted in a will be replaced with a new code of Act. In order to protect themselves from
legal landscape of continual reform. practice in 2013. potential liability and rely on the protection
of section 733 of the Local Government Act
The most recent legislative reform is the The NSW Government has indicated 1993, Councils will need to demonstrate
Coastal Protection Amendment Act 2012 that the forthcoming code will contain the relevant decision was made in “good
(the Amendment Act) which commenced further requirements for temporary faith”, meaning that the decision was made
on 21 January 2013. These reforms follow coastal protection works such as, in a diligent manner and based on sound
and amend the major reforms introduced the placing of works on all areas of scientific evidence. To assist Councils
in 2010 by the Coastal Protection and open coasts where private properties in this regard, the Office of Environment
Other Legislation Amendment Act 2010 are vulnerable to erosion (previously, and Heritage has provided a website of
(2010 Reforms). This article discusses this was restricted to 14 “hot spot” resources which can be found at: www.
the amendment of the Coastal Protection areas). In addition, it will specify how environment.nsw.gov.au/climateChange/
Act 1979 by the Amendment Act, the NSW sandbags may be used as well as the sealevel.htm
Government’s withdrawal of the NSW Sea allowable height of those works.
Level Rise Policy Statement 2009 and Coastal zone management plans
the intersection between the legislative (2) Planning Certificates
scheme of coastal zone management plans CZMPs are created by councils as a tool for
The requirement to include coastal the development of land-use planning and
(CZMPs) with the development consent hazard categories identified in CZMPs
process under the Environmental Planning development controls in areas affected or
on planning certificates issued under predicted to be affected by coastal hazards,
and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act). section 149 of the EP&A Act has including inundation and flooding. CZMPs
Recent reforms been removed by the Amendment seek to ameliorate the effects of coastal
Act. Under the former section 56B hazards (such as erosion), as well as
The Amendment Act introduces 2 key reforms: of the Coastal Protection Act 1979 manage the expected impacts of climate
(introduced by the 2010 Reforms), change (such as sea level rise). If relevant,
(1) Temporary Coastal Protection Works
land within a coastal zone was they must be considered when determining
There is now greater flexibility for categorised according to the level of a development application (section 79C(1)
landowners to carry out “temporary risk that the land would be adversely (v) of the EP&A Act).
coastal protection works”. Temporary affected by coastal hazards and
coastal protection works refer to that information was required to be Many coastal councils are presently in the
placing sandbags on the beach in included on planning certificates. The process of preparing CZMPs, and have
order to mitigate the effects of wave NSW Department of Planning and been given a 12 month extension to submit
erosion on land. The amendment Infrastructure is expected to release their plans to the Minister for Environment
allows landowners greater flexibility to guidelines on how Councils should in light of the recent reforms.
place sandbags on beaches to mitigate communicate risk regarding coastal
hazards on planning certificates. For more information on the reforms go
erosion impacts during storms. A
to: www.environment.nsw.gov.au/coasts/
private landowner may place these
Sea level rise planning benchmarks stage1CoastRefQaA.htm
works on their land without obtaining
development consent under the EP&A In addition to the above reforms, the NSW The next stage of reforms is currently
Act. Works may be placed at anytime. Government has withdrawn the NSW under development, and will be submitted
Previously, a landowner was only Sea Level Rise Policy Statement 2009 for consultation in 2013 Q
authorised to undertake works when which contained state-wide sea level rise
erosion was ‘occurring or imminent’. planning benchmarks. Councils are now
8 | MARCH 2013 | newplanner
Infrastructure Matters
Strategic infrastructure and the potential for ‘value capture’
Greg New, Director, GLN Planning
review
The Long Term Transport Master Plan mechanisms, including special purpose roads and parks in exchange for extra floor
and the State Infrastructure Strategy property levies, in situations where there is space across the Macquarie Park precinct.
a clear link to new infrastructure.
were released in December 2012. These local infrastructure value capture
Major infrastructure projects in those Value capture as an infrastructure funding schemes have been criticised for being a
documents that have the potential tool is not new, but examples of its back-door means of extracting contributions
successful implementation in Australia from developers above the $20,000 per
to profoundly affect the way Sydney are few. There has not been much political dwelling section 94 cap. Policy leadership
functions in the future include: appetite over the years for these types of from the Department on bonus floor space /
• the WestConnex motorway that aims to schemes, with governments preferring value capture schemes is sorely needed.
free-up road transport between Sydney’s instead to continue to rely on entrenched
indirect taxation such as land tax and stamp Value capture schemes will only achieve
west and its international gateways their aims where transparency in planning
duties on land transfers to fund capital
• Preservation of major road transport works. Property and development groups decisions is maintained and where investors
corridors, including an outer orbital typically resist further imposts on the can see value for money being derived from
from Penrith to the Hawkesbury development of land without some reform of the new tax. A comprehensive approach to
• Light rail lines in the Sydney CBD and the indirect taxes, which is understandable. value capture is required.
between the CBD and the south eastern The former State Labor Government in 2005 Value capture is predicted on value uplift.
suburbs abandoned a short-lived vendor tax on the Uplift often commences when a firm decision
• A second rail harbour crossing and sale of real estate due to the public reaction. is made to proceed with an infrastructure
conversion of parts of the rail network to Although the vendor tax was not strictly a project. The formulation and execution of
high-frequency, single-deck ‘metro’ trains value capture type of tax, its political failure a value capture scheme should therefore
will likely weigh heavily on any government occur well before the new infrastructure
The projects appear to be all common- that attempts to link new property taxes to is operational. Some of the opportunity for
sense and high priority. Some arguably new infrastructure funding. value capture income associated with the
have been needed for at least two new rail links in northwest and south west
decades. Lack of funding has been a The historic limited application of value
capture in NSW has been characterised Sydney will have already been lost because
major impediment to the roll-out of an land sales along the routes have built in the
infrastructure network that fits with by localised schemes linked to bonus
floor space incentives. A recent example value that will be derived from the yet-to-be-
Sydney’s status as a world city. completed infrastructure.
involved high rise development on the
One funding mechanism that has received Rhodes Peninsula in the Canada Bay LGA, The government should resist the simplistic
attention in the plans was ‘value capture’. where part of the value accrued from addition of yet another tax, and tailor the
A value capture or ‘betterment’ scheme extra development rights is now being suite of property taxes around the new
may be described as a tax imposed on the directed toward the provision of additional linear road and rail transport projects
land owner on the unearned increment in open space and community facilities. In instead. It should review and then redefine
land price growth that accrues due to a addition to making section 94 contributions, the tax mix for properties in these areas,
planning or infrastructure decision. the developers were willing to make including whether land tax or stamp duty
The NSW Parliamentary Committee extra monetary or in kind contributions reductions or ‘holidays’ are warranted.
on Transport and Infrastructure in its through voluntary planning agreements
in exchange for extra development height. An optimum tax mix for the value capture
November 2012 report on the utilisation zones would be one that:
of rail corridors examined the potential Other councils have tried to pursue similar
of value capture mechanisms to generate types of schemes over the years but have • favours owners who redeveloped their
funding that could in turn be reinvested in been discouraged by the Department land early in the operational life and
further transport projects. A mechanism of Planning and Infrastructure. Canada discouraged land banking
reviewed by the Committee and which has Bay succeeded in large part due to there
• leads to reinvestment of the tax receipts
been promoted by various groups over the being only a few major landowners in the
into paying off infrastructure loans or
years is Tax Increment Financing. This development, and those owners supported
into other worthy infrastructure projects
method involves government obtaining the scheme because they envisaged
in the surrounding district or region, and
finance for new transport infrastructure capturing an acceptable financial return.
thus garnered fresh public confidence in
based on the future increase in land Where numerous landowners are involved,
the system
values and taxes that will accrue from the a designing a value capture scheme is
more complicated. Recently, Ryde City • allows the people of NSW to share in any
provision of the infrastructure.
Council, this time with the support of the unearned increment that is derived from
The State Infrastructure Strategy also Department, has recently exhibited a draft the introduction of a major transport
supports the use of targeted value capture LEP that seeks a contribution for local link Q
newplanner | MARCH 2013 | 9
The Urban Renewal of Newcastle
Stephen Barr, Director, Monteath & Powys Pty Ltd
Background and need for renewal as the economy has moved on from here, been undertaken as part of the preparation
but rather the employment and commerce, of the Newcastle Urban Renewal Strategy
The renewal of Newcastle has been the residential opportunities, the access to 2012 prepared by the State Government in
on the agenda for some time. One of the town centre from the suburbs via public consultation with Newcastle City Council. The
the key pieces of planning policy to transport and the beaches, in short the people second part is the facilitation.
need to be in town to ensure the success of
seriously address the issue is the Urban Newcastle. All of these things should still be Identification of sites
Renewal SEPP, which was released on provided in Newcastle and the need to renew Clause 9 of the SEPP, requires the Director
the 15th of December 2010. The SEPP, the city can bring Newcastle back to the General to undertake a study to identify a
thriving centre that is was. potential urban renewal precinct and the
while applying to the State, nominated appropriate controls for the site. The recently
three priority areas for renewal The photo below, photo 1, shows some of released Newcastle Urban renewal Strategy is
including Newcastle. the land that exists adjacent to the rail line, the document that has been used to meet this
the original buildings on Hunter Street which requirement.
In relation to the creation of the SEPP, this is consistent with much of the development
was announced in the last three months of in Hunter Street. However it is important The strategy doesn’t provide information on
the term of the Labor Government. The scene to note that there is development fronting why but rather where these sites are what
was of a Candidate in the Seat of Newcastle King Street, which are the taller buildings in the controls will be. There appears to be little
who was also Minister for the Hunter, Jodi the background of the photo. This existing information about how the sites were chosen
Mackay, who was clearly a passionate, active development should encourage policy makers and then why the controls were adopted.
Novocastrian who wanted to see Newcastle that there is demand for this development in There is evidence in the strategy that the
succeed but appeared to be struggling to get Newcastle, we can only assume that the fact was significant work undertaken, phrases
support from her party to make changes in there is more than one development there such as ground truthing was undertaken,
Newcastle. There were also campaigns from that the development was feasible. feasibility studies prepared, urban design
local business leaders supported by industry testing developed and the word “analysis”
bodies such as Property Council, UDIA and and “testing” is used frequently. Clearly there
the Business Chamber to “fix our city”. GPT has been a significant amount of work done
were looking to undertake a $600 million to support the proposed key site locations,
development in the City Centre and there heights, uses, setbacks and constraints,
was significant debate over the existence of however there is very little of this provided
the railway line coming into Newcastle, with in the document. If this information was
generally those in the city supporting the available it would help support the controls,
removal of the line and those in Maitland and provide more credibility for the proposed
adjoining regions wanting the rail line to stay. outcomes and also have a clearer background
for the objectives of the development of
The rail line has been a significant issue; the city, which need to be considered by
however the opposing views actually recognise any consent authority in looking at future
the importance of Newcastle. Those that want This photo shows the land adjacent to the railway developments. Normal planning process is to
the rail line removed claim that the barrier line and Hunter Street, showing the original undertake a site analysis, including physical,
the rail line creates is stifling the growth of development in the fore ground with signs of environmental, social and economic factors
the city centre, thereby recognising the need redevelopment in the background on King Street and then preparing a plan that responds to
for the City to grow and continue to represent those issues. The words in the document
its mantle as the Capital of the Hunter. Those The current State Government has recently demonstrate that this has occurred however
that want the rail to stay is on the basis of released for public comment the Newcastle the evidence of this has not been provided
access to Newcastle, thereby demonstrating Urban Renewal Strategy 2012 and announced only the response.
the importance and desirability of access to the removal of the railway line. The key now
Newcastle from the Hunter from areas such will be the delivery of this vision and the In formulating the controls for key sites in
as Maitland, and reinforcing the need for actual renewing of Newcastle. One of the key the city, feasibilities were undertaken to
Newcastle to maintain its status and function links between the strategy and delivery is the ensure that the controls allow development
as the Capital of the Hunter. planning system and those that work within it, to occur that are profitable and achievable.
if this is not effective, the outcomes will not be Private development will only occur where
You tube is a wonderful thing for finding outcomes are feasible, without this there is
information. This includes a 14 minute achieved within the time frames identified in
the strategy or worse still not achieved at all. little motivation for a developer to undertake
video on what Newcastle was like in 1945. development and even less motivation for
(The link is http://www.youtube.com/ The Urban Renewal SEPP an institution to lend money for a project
watch?v=F6GkTizYFHA if you are interested). that does not provide suitable returns for
It shows a productive bustling town with great The aims of the SEPP are simple, identify
the level of risk. This process of proving the
lifestyle and employment opportunities, in sites for renewal outline the process to do this
feasibility of planning controls is a valuable
particular it shows a busy Hunter Street, busy and then “facilitate the orderly and economic
and necessary part of any planning process,
with people using public transport, coming development and redevelopment of sites in
particularly where urban renewal needs to be
out of work and an industrial waterfront and and around urban renewal precincts” and
achieved in a priority area.
town centre employing thousands of men and then “facilitate delivery of the objectives of
women. This provides a great base to argue any applicable Government State, Regional Facilitation of Renewal
that Newcastle needs to be renewed when or metropolitan strategy”. In short find the
outcomes that are required and identify sites The facilitation of renewal will occur through a
you see the activity and prominence it enjoyed
and then make it happen. range of processes, primarily catalyst projects
more than 60 years ago. When considering
being undertaken through Government
the renewing of Newcastle, this doesn’t mean In looking at the aims there are two parts to funding and private investment.
the return to the industrial nature of the city, the process to identify the sites, which has
10 | MARCH 2013 | newplannerThe catalyst projects listed in the Strategy To further assist in the delivery of the strategy being transparent in providing information
include and “facilitate the orderly and economic regarding their assessments and costs of
development and redevelopment of sites in their projects.
• Expanding the university campus in the and around urban renewal precincts” I believe
city centre the following should be required;
• Revitalisation of Hunter Street Mall and
feature
adjacent major land holdings • Establish a team within Newcastle
Council responsible for the assessment
• Reshaping Hunter Street and delivery of each project.
• Promoting enhanced connections across Consideration given to increasing
the rail corridor development application fees to assist in
• Attracting more residents to the city centre funding this team, this could be offered
in return for known time frames for the
• Promoting a higher mode shift to public
assessment of the application.
transport Revitalisation in progress
• Place project managers within the
These items, by their name will assist in
Department of Planning locally to act as a
encouraging development in town.
liaison officers to facilitate the timely and
The following photo, photo 2, shows the need appropriate assessment of the applications
to provide connections across the corridor, by State Government Departments/
with the development on Honeysuckle, agencies in parallel with Council.
which has been delivered with a range of • Early meeting s with council by any
uses including residential, commercial, proponent wanting to undertake
recreational and retail ensures that people development within the renewal precinct
use this space through the day and night followed by regular meetings to discuss
through the week. The rail line stops this the constraints and preferred outcomes An example of 3d modelling using a laser scanner,
activity spilling across into Hunter Street. associated with those constraints. Newcastle Town Hall
• The ability to quickly make minor changes
to the LEP or DCP where inconsistencies
are identified as applications are assessed
to avoid delay over ambiguous statements
in the policies
• Require consultants to sign off on
applications confirming that proposals
are consistent with the DCP and LEP and
clearly identifying areas where these are
not consistent and these elements being
This photo shows the development in Honeysuckle, identified and discussed through the
the rear of the older development which fronts on to regular meetings held with the council An example of 3d modelling using a laser scanner,
Hunter Street, the railway that separates the two, and development assessment team. These Newcastle Town Hall
yes that train is going to Maitland non-conformances need to be supported
by evidence that supports the proposal Any good strategy also needs to be reviewed
Importantly the SEPP provides the opportunity that is based in sound assessment and to continue to facilitate the orderly economic
to give the strategy document weight under the logical planning consideration delivery of land. The annual reviews need
assessment of applications. The next key step, • The reduction in section 94A to be made of the outcomes on the ground
which is discussed in the strategy is ensuring contributions for development in town. and how they reflect on the priorities within
that the DCP and LEP are consistent with the Currently this sits at 3% of the capital the strategy. However reflection will not be
strategy to provide the best opportunity for cost of the development. In addition enough there needs to be a willingness to
the vision to be delivered. This consistency the ability to delay paying the fees until make changes to the process to improve areas
will provide a simpler process for Council settlement of the properties. While this that are not being achieved in accordance with
as the regulator to assess and determine provides a reduced cost to developers, strategy and for the reviews to be considered
more quickly development applications that it also ensures that funds are provided against measurable outcomes.
are within the Town centre area and will closer to the time when demands for
also provide certainty to developers and their The revitalisation of Newcastle is a significant
services are generated. event, and recognises the role that Newcastle
consultants in providing an application that
• The use of 3D models to better as Capital of the Hunter plays in the State. As
meets the policies without ambiguity.
understand the impacts of developments the second largest city in New South Wales
As each application is considered by the and to be able to explain these matters and the capital of the region that contributes
Council various other agencies such as the to the public, councillors, consultants more than 40% of the Gross State Product,
Mine Subsidence Board, will be involved in the and council staff when discussing the this goal needs to be given a high priority and
decision making of the application. Without the issues. An example of a street scape the resolve to deliver on the vision outlined in
commitment from other agencies to also act that has been measured and produced the strategy that will be facilitated through the
to deliver the outcomes identified in the policy, as a 3D image, which is survey accurate Renewal SEPP Q
the creation of planning policies such as LEPs has been shown in Photos 4 and 5,
and DCPs will be of little value in delivering the and design model can be inserted into Stephen Barr has been involved in the
outcomes the strategy put forward. this 3D images to produce accurate development industry for more than 20 years
appreciation of the implications of future and has lived in Newcastle for the past 17 years
As part of developing the strategy there developments. and believes that Newcastle has enormous
has been significant work undertaken to potential to be a vibrant, modern, growing city
identify the extent of the mine subsidence While the above elements may help delivery that will be a desirable place to live, work and
within Newcastle, this is evident in the renewal to the city in a timely fashion, the socialise. Stephen is a Registered surveyor
strategy document that has been placed most important factor will be collaboration and Certified Practicing Planner, holding a
on exhibition, similarly other agencies have between the Council, any agencies involved Master of Planning from UTS. He is also a
been consulted as part of the process and in the consideration of development and Director of Monteath and Powys a development
need to be engaged so they can be aware the development industry. The council and consultancy primarily based in Newcastle,
of what they need to overcome to assist in agencies need to provide a proactive service which has operated for more than 60 years and
the delivery of the outcomes outlined for the to assist in delivering the vision that they have employs 6 planners out of a staff of 65.
renewal of Newcastle supported, equally the development industry
needs to be engaging with the agencies and
newplanner | MARCH 2013 | 11Comprehensive
Environmental
Assessment
& Management
ZZZWUDYHUVHFRORJ\FRPDX
38A The Avenue
Phone: (02) 4340 5331 PO Box 7138
Mt Penang Parklands
12 | DECEMBER 2012 | newplanner Fax: (02) 4340 2151 Kariong NSW 2250
Kariong NSW 2250Australia’s Green Cauldron – one of Australia’s
greatest destinations
feature
Janet Mackay and Ross Corbett, TRC Tourism
What are National Landscapes?
Australia is widely regarded as having one of the world’s
most distinct and rich environments. It is also home to the
world’s oldest living culture. We have a lifestyle that is
admired the world over. These assets make Australia one
of the world’s most desirable visitor destinations – one
that can be interpreted, promoted and conserved.
Recent research into international visitor markets revealed the
need to make Australia an easier destination for planning and
booking travel. In response, Tourism Australia and Parks Australia
formed a unique tourism and conservation partnership – Australia’s
National Landscapes Program. The partnership aims to identify and
promote up to 16 landscapes that provide exceptional experiences
of Australia’s natural and cultural heritage while delivering
environmental, social and economic outcomes.
Australia’s National Landscapes currently include the Red Centre,
Great Ocean Road, Australia’s Coastal Wilderness, Australia’s
Timeless North (including Kakadu), the Kimberley, Great Barrier
Reef, Australia’s Green Cauldron, Great South West Edge, Ningaloo/
Shark Bay, Kangaroo Island, Flinders Ranges, Greater Blue Figure 1
Mountains, Sydney Harbour, Wet Tropics and the Australian Alps.
species of vertebrate animals, thousands of invertebrate species
The Program aims to: and many rare and threatened species conserved in several national
• Promote Australia’s world class, high quality visitor experiences parks as well as marine wildlife along the coastline. The region’s
• Strengthen the delivery of experiences through infrastructure, rainforests are internationally recognised as Australia’s Gondwana
training, business development and marketing Rainforests World Heritage Area.
• Enhance the value of tourism to regional economies The landscape, culture and community of the region are inextricably
• Increase the role of protected areas in those economies intertwined, adding to its distinctiveness. The area was a rich
landscape for local Indigenous people and continues to hold great
• Build support for protecting our natural and cultural assets cultural and spiritual significance for these communities.
Tourism Australia and Parks Australia are working with each State to An eclectic mix of towns, quaint villages, farming, horticulture,
plan and showcase these areas to Australia’s global target audience surfing and artistic communities have evolved, drawn to lifestyles
of Experience Seekers - travellers keen to experience new adventures based upon the region’s unique character, fertile soils, climate
and destinations unique to Australia. and the relaxed healthy atmosphere. Vibrant local cultures
Australia’s Green Cauldron are expressed in art, craft, music, spirituality and alternative
philosophies and holistic healing, as well as in numerous local
Australia’s Green Cauldron is one of the most accessible of markets and festivals, quirky places and characters. The region
Australia’s National Landscapes in the country. Encompassing the is also noted for its fresh local produce (grown by both traditional
hinterland to the west of the Gold Coast and Byron Bay, it extends and organic methods) and a commitment to sustainable living and
north to Tamborine Mountain and west towards Warwick taking conserving the environment.
in the volcanic semi-circle of the Scenic Rim region. The region is
bordered by Border Ranges National Park to the west, Lamington Despite its proximity to the major population centres of the Gold
and Springbrook National Parks to the north with Wollumbin (Mt Coast and Brisbane, Australia’s Green Cauldron region has
Warning) National Park in the centre. It includes 12 national parks maintained its distinctive unspoilt natural character and cultural
most of which are part of the Gondwana Rainforest World Heritage identity, providing a very appealing destination for visitors seeking
Area, several other conservation areas and 2 marine reserves. authentic experiences.
The National Landscape spans South East Queensland and Visitors to Australia’s Green Cauldron
Northern New South Wales and takes in seven local government The Region has great potential for tourism growth. However,
areas and several Regional and Local Tourism Organisations visitor statistics shown in Figure 2 highlight a long-term decline
(RTOs and LTOs). (see Figure 1). in visitors. The participation of Australia’s Green Cauldron in the
The region is a distinctive natural and cultural landscape consisting National Landscapes program provides a unique opportunity for
of the remnants of the world’s second largest shield volcano, the region to strategically target sustainable tourism growth to the
clothed by relic subtropical and warm temperate rainforest from destination that would bring social, environmental and economic
the ancient southern supercontinent Gondwana, bounded by a benefits to the Region and its communities.
globally recognised coastline and world-class surf breaks. The area Excluding the Gold Coast and Byron Bay, international visitors would
is celebrated for more than 1,700 species of flowering plants, 500 make up approximately 10% or less of total visitors to Australia’s
newplanner | MARCH 2013 | 13Green Cauldron. The dominant markets are domestic day and • provided for major projects to be developed when the time is
overnight visitors from Brisbane, Sydney, the Mid North Coast and right or funding available (for example, road infrastructure
Northern Rivers. Not surprisingly, most businesses used to dealing upgrades or second priority projects).
with international visitors are located in the coastal destinations,
The planning process started in August 2011 and the EDS was
with a small number of backpacker to high-end resorts spread
signed-off by the Steering Committee in May 2012.
throughout the rest of the region attracting overseas guests.
Destination positioning
The starting point for any EDS lies with clarifying the positioning
of the destination in its key source markets (some people think
of this incorrectly as branding – rather it is the attributes and
values that underpin a brand). Destination positioning provides the
framework while the EDS provides for the delivery of experiences
that align with and support the positioning. Although the starting
point is rightly market-driven, the EDS has the job of balancing
the demand and supply side of the entire destination. The EDS
needs to identify a small number of exceptional and distinctive
experiences that can deliver the positioning for the Experience
Seeker market. Shown in Figure 3, the positioning framework for
Australia’s Green Cauldron was as follows:
The Brand Promise: Immerse Yourself in a Mysterious Melting Pot
Figure 2 - Visitor statistics for Australia’s Green Cauldron (Tourism Descriptor: An Ancient Volcanic Hotspot, Now a Gondwanan
Australia, 2011) Rainforest
Experience Development Strategy (EDS) Character: Truly Eclectic
Each National Landscape requires an Experience Development
Strategy (EDS). Immerse Yourself in a Mysterious Melting Pot
Planning for National Landscapes has introduced a fundamentally Immerse yourself conveys the engaging nature of the
different perspective to the broader approach of tourism destination to Experienc Seekers through natural and cultural
destination planning. Traditionally, tourism plans have been broad diversity (including the Aboriginal cultural dimension).
in their focus, typically having a long shopping list of actions Mysterious suggests a sense of discovery and refers to the
to be undertaken by state tourism agencies, regional tourism mystique of the destination – the natural phenomenon, the
associations or councils. By contrast, EDS’s have a narrow focus phenomenal nature and ‘colourful’ towns and communities
on a small range of quality experiences aimed at domestic and and provides an opportunit to include a significant Aboriginal
international Experience Seekers. component.
An EDS identifies: Melting pot represents the eclectic nature of the destination –
the coming together of diverse elements that whilst retaining
• current and potential iconic visitor experiences their individual character provide a dynamic mix.
• How delivery can be improved to make experiences world class
• Where the experiences are best delivered
• Facilities, services and infrastructure needed to support delivery Consultation in development of the EDS
• What information should be developed to improve delivery and
connect with the target market. Extensive community consultation and engagement took place
including:
Major considerations in planning for Australia’s Green Cauldron
as a National Landscape were: • Community Open House and Workshops
• Field visits with tourism operators
• Effective consultation and communication aimed at developing
public and private sector and indigenous ownership of the EDS • A project webpage and interactive discussions of ideas as they
evolved
• Realistic assessment of the current and potential world class
experiences that can deliver on the destination positioning, • Steering Committee focus groups/workshops
where these are delivered or best delivered, and the challenges • Regular discussions with Government and tourism industry
to be overcome to achieve these partners
• Identifying journeys that work seamlessly in terms of the • Meetings and field visits with Indigenous community members
trip cycle, travel logistics and accommodation, provision of Two fundamental outcomes of the consultation were a Vision for
information and interpretation, and presentation of themes and Australia’s Green Cauldron and broad agreement on the hero
authentic experiences that encapsulate the distinctive qualities experiences, in other words, on the way the community and
of the region and its people industry wanted to see the region develop.
• ensuring on-going quality visitor experiences and identifying the
issues that need to be addressed and solutions that will ensure Vision for Australia’s Green Cauldron
sustainable experience development and protection of the Each and every visitor to Australia’s Green Cauldron will leave
values upon which those experiences are based inspired and touched by their experience of our region’s world class
• a realistic strategy for EDS implementation, including priority actions surfing, marine and rainforest opportunities, spiritual values, cultural
and workable cooperative management and accountabilities. connections, creative communities and sustainable lifestyles.
Our goal was to deliver an Experience Development Strategy that: Our values - how we want to develop as a destination
• We want to be front-of-mind for nature - based experiences in
• set realistic priorities for the short, medium and long term Australia.
• ensured that implementation began immediately at minimal • It is critical that we are known for the right things -
cost (for instance, new experiences, product bundling, conservation, our cultural connections, environmental ethic.
partnership marketing) and
14 | MARCH 2013 | newplannerYou can also read
