Council staff admit need to review character statements
Central Coast Council staff have admitted that neighbourhood "character statements" used in the assessment of development applications need to be updated to accommodate legal changes since they were put in place.
However, they have claimed that the statements will not be abolished and that they will be retained as a "consideration" under a combined planning scheme.
The statement was made in response to comments submitted about the proposal to incorporate Coastal Open Space System land in the E2 zone.
The staff did not make clear what form or status the revised statements would take.
The comment was made in response to a public submission that the council should "enforce existing character statements and consider things as tree cover, site coverage, streetscape, setbacks, building lines, view sharing and the like in character statements.".
Council staff commented: "Character statements remain a consideration and will be reviewed through upcoming stages of the Comprehensive LEP/DCP review.
"It should be noted that the character statements for the former Gosford LGA were developed prior to the introduction of State Environmental Planning Policy Exempt and Complying Development which in many areas are used to override any local controls.
"The character statements need to be updated to reflect the many changes in legislation that have occurred since their introduction to ensure they are as effective as possible."
"The draft CCDCP does not change site specific controls and retains character statements of the former Gosford LGA as a consideration.
"Current character considerations have been retained."
SOURCE:
Central Coast Council agenda 4.2, 9 Mar 2021