The Shire of Ashburton is opposing a proposal to amend Planning Legislation to provide for an appeal right against a Council’s decision not to initiate a rezoning to its Town Planning Scheme.

At its April meeting the Council was advised that the State Government intends to amend the Town Planning and Development Act to provide for an appeal right for rezoning applications.

Shire Chief Executive Officer, Mr David Carey said that this action was an inappropriate way for the State to manage its relationship with local government.

"The State Government has a legitimate role in state wide and regional planning issues, however it does not have a role in intervening in local Town Planning Scheme zoning amendments," said Mr Carey.

"A proposed amendment to the Town Planning and Development Act to centralise State discretion would further shift the authority of Local Government to the State."

"The Minister has indicated that once passed, this Section of the Act will not be proclaimed, thus remaining a threat until the Minister determines that it is required," said Mr Carey.

"If the Minister is keen to see an amendment to the Act, why would he wait to have it proclaimed?"

The Shire will write to local MP’s, the Minister for Planning and the Opposition Spokesman for Planning objecting to an amendment of this nature and the manner in which it is proposed to be undertaken.

For further information please contact Council’s Senior Planning Officer, Mrs Stacey Towne on (08) 9189 1029.