The City of Mount Gambier acknowledges the strong community interest in the Limestone Coast Southern Regional Assessment Panel's (RAP) decision relating to the demolition of the wall at 2 Sturt Street, determined on Thursday 19 March 2026.
It is important to clarify that this was not a decision of the City of Mount Gambier. The development application was assessed and determined by the RAP under South Australia's planning system which is legislated by the State Government.
The RAP was established under the Planning, Development and Infrastructure Act and became operational on 1 July 2022. The panel serves the City of Mount Gambier, Wattle Range Council, District Council of Grant and District Council of Robe. All five panel members are independent professionals, hold accreditation from the State Government and are not elected members or Council representatives.
Under this framework, Council does not make planning decisions and does not direct outcomes. Council's role is limited to providing administrative support to the RAP as is specifically required under the Act.
The Assessment Manager of the RAP is appointed to the role by the Minister for Planning and is required to provide reports based on planning policy, technical advice and relevant legislation. This report included a recommendation to the RAP for consideration as part of its decision making process.
Council does not oversee, review or have control of the determinations made by the RAP.
Council recognises the strong community interest in heritage matters and encourages respectful engagement with the planning system, which provides established avenues for representation, review and appeal. Any persons seeking further guidance on the decision can access details on the PlanSA website.
Paul Simpson
City of Mount Gambier CEO
