Bega Valley Shire Council is seeking community feedback on the first stage of a comprehensive review of the Bega Valley Development Control Plan (DCP).
The DCP guides the design and assessment of new development in the Bega Valley Shire and plays a vital role in ensuring development is well-planned.
Stage 1 of the review includes replacing the On-site Sewerage Management, Subdivision Standards, Engineering Standards and Contaminated land sections of the DCP with updated sections.
The Bushfire prone land section has been amended, and a new Waste Management section has been drafted. Additionally, new Draft Stormwater Guidelines for Development that supplement the DCP are being exhibited.
Mayor Russell Fitzpatrick said the review aims to modernise the DCP to reflect current best practice, local conditions and Council's strategic priorities, and ensure a more transparent decision-making process.
"These draft changes are about making the development process clearer and easier to understand for everyone, while also helping us build a more sustainable, inclusive and resilient community," Mayor Fitzpatrick said.
"One of the big changes in this first stage is the proposed update to our subdivision rules. We're aiming to give designers more flexibility in subdivision layouts while also reducing long-term maintenance costs for the community."
Mayor Fitzpatrick said the draft stormwater guidelines set out clear requirements for managing stormwater onsite and when discharging to public infrastructure.
"Getting stormwater management right is crucial, as it can significantly impact the health of our local environments and waterways, as well as support the ongoing health of lake and marine-based industries," he said.
The new draft waste management section has been developed to guide the integration of waste management into more complex multi-unit developments.
The DCP review has been informed by current NSW plans and strategies along with Council's adopted strategies, policies and procedures.
"These updates will shape how development happens across our shire into the future. We really want to hear from locals, whether you're a builder, a developer or just someone who cares about how our towns grow and change," Mayor Fitzpatrick said.
Exhibition documents and information on how to provide feedback are available on Council's Have Your Say webpage.
The drafts are on public exhibition for 42 days, from Wednesday 6 August to Wednesday 17 September. Targeted consultation will also occur with relevant NSW Government agencies and industry groups.
The Comprehensive DCP Review project has been divided into four stages, with completion anticipated for 2027. Each stage will be progressively exhibited as drafts are completed and will come into effect as adopted by Council.
Once the Stage 1 exhibition period closes, staff will review submissions and consider amendments before presenting a final report to Councillors for adoption.
