Planning affected by sea level rise
Gosford Council has resolved to adopt the sea level rise planning level of 0.9 metres for the local government area.
Planning certificates for affected properties will now state the fact.
"The adoption of this planning level has the possibility of affecting the future use and potential of certain land in the vicinity of the coast and estuaries," a report to council by staff stated.
"It is currently difficult to determine with certainty which land that will be.
"Council, however, has a discretionary obligation to advise current and potential land owners that these policies exist."
The sea level rise planning level will act as the basis for council staff to proceed with risk assessment, policy development and strategic planning decisions, according to the report.
"Engagement with community networks and interest groups will be essential as this council adapts and responds with the aim of becoming more resilient to the impacts of climate change.
"This will be an ongoing process and as new information from state agencies is received by council it will continue to be shared with the community.
Meanwhile, council also resolved to place its draft Climate Change Policy on public exhibition for a minimum of 56 days sometime next year.
"The intention of the draft Climate Change Policy is to clearly outline the extent of Council's commitment to managing climate change risks," the report stated.
"It is also intended to provide assistance in understanding the scope of council's responsibilities with respect to climate change management."
According to the report, key components proposed for implementation of the policy include the preparation and implementation of a Climate Change Mitigation Strategy, participation in the International Council for Local Environment Initiatives' Oceania Adaptive and Resilient Communities program and ongoing preparation and review of studies, plans and strategies relevant to the consideration of climate change risks.
Two information workshops will be offered to interested community members during the exhibition period.
Council agenda ENV.87 and ENV.89, 1 Dec 2009