Decreasing the number of councils that operate in NSW will benefit the state, according to the Real Estate Institute of New South Wales.
REINSW President Malcolm Gunning said by reducing the number of councils in NSW from 152 we will see a decline in the local politics that adversely effects planning.
“Council amalgamations will elevate councils above the local politics which currently hampers housing developments and local planning.
“Planning should be assessed on its objective value to the state and the area rather than being driven by a minority, which is often the case at this level of government.
“For too long a small group of people have been able to control the fate of many councils and have stalled the development of essential projects. It is time for progress to be allowed and a fairer system for all,” Mr Gunning said.
The NSW government is seeking to transition local councils to a new structure by September 2016 or councils will be required to implement an improvement plan. Under the Fit for the Future proposal local councils must make their submission by 30 June 2015.
The submissions will be assessed by the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART), who have been appointed as the Expert Panel by the NSW Government.
For further information or to interview REINSW President Malcolm Gunning, please contact Helen Hull at [email protected] or on 0419 642 961.