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Parks, playgrounds, childcare centres, environmental works and sportsgrounds are at risk because of a State Government threat to slash funds that local councils are able to levy from developers, called section 94 contributions.
Under changes, due within weeks, councils across New South Wales will lose development contributions and will only be able to fund infrastructure that solely services an individual development site or precinct.
At risk in Willoughby are $30 million in planned projects including new parks, community facilities, libraries, roads and infrastructure.
The reduction in developer contributions could pose a threat to the timing of planned upgrades at Castle Cove Park, Naremburn Park Playground, Northbridge Park Oval and playgrounds throughout Chatswood West, bicycle and pedestrian paths at St Leonards, Artarmon and Chatswood, as well as upgrades to childcare facilities including Artarmon Children’s Centre and Devonshire Street Children’s Day Care.
At best these works would be delayed until funding is obtained, but there is a real chance they will not proceed.
To share your views on the planning reforms, which deny families the legislative right to be notified and comment on local development write to:
Minister Sartor
Department of Planning
GPO Box 39, Sydney NSW 2001
Email: planningreform@planning.nsw.gov.au
For more information visit www.keepitlocal.org.au or for North Shore specific information visit www.handsoffcouncils.org .
Find out more
-
From the Mayor - a letter sent to local residents regarding this issue
- NSROC Councils Keep It Local - an article about the combined efforts of mayors and councillors from the Northern Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils