Council has now finalised planning controls and guidelines that recognise and support the special heritage features of Berry township, following extensive consultation with the community.
The NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure gazetted the Berry heritage listings through an amendment to the Shoalhaven Local Environmental Plan (LEP) 2014 on Friday 17 July 2026.
Mayor Patricia White said Berry was renowned for its beautiful historical architecture and tree-lined streets and its unique character deserved protection.
"The town's heritage is a point of pride for residents and attracts many visitors," Cr White said.
"These new planning provisions under the LEP and the Development Control Plan (DCP) ensure that the heritage qualities of particular buildings and areas of Berry are documented and safeguarded," she said.
"Development can still take place but it must be done within the planning controls, maintaining the character and heritage significance of those areas and items."
The LEP amendment identifies a new Princess Street Heritage Conservation Area (between the existing Queen Street and Berry Showground HCAs), 16 new heritage items and alters one existing heritage item listing in Shoalhaven LEP 2014.
Council also amended Shoalhaven DCP 2014, introducing a new Chapter - N2: Town of Berry and supporting maps. This chapter provides new guidelines for development in the town centre and certain residential areas. The amended DCP came into effect on 24 March 2026.
Residents and groups such as the Berry & District Historical Society shared their knowledge and views to inform work that began in December 2023 to investigate and prepare planning and heritage provisions for Berry.
Cr White said the community had been instrumental in Council's development and completion of the DCP Chapter for Berry and the LEP amendment.
"I thank the people of Berry for getting involved in this process and demonstrating their passion and dedication for the town," she said.
