Changes needed for planning to succeed
Mr Wiffen (Peninsula News, May 1) has tried to explain the ineptness of the mythical beast we know as planning.
During a recent visit to Gosford, I mused on the claimed development that would retain views to the ridgelines.
For this to be assured, each property in the CBD would need to be assessed for view corridors with future development to comply with strict conditions on height and setbacks.
This of course has not happened, with the status quo continuing.
An example is the Ettalong Waterfront development with high rise being approved to block views to the estuary and beyond.
Any claim of planning for the future is pie in the sky, based on reasoning supplied by Mr Wiffen, myself and others.
Assessment of development applications can be disastrous when it includes negotiation, deals, off-sets and amendments, due to the preponderant claim the development will improve if planning guidelines are rejected.
Ettalong's waterfront is in danger of being an eyesore and an environmental disaster if this attitude is allowed to continue.
Consider what impact the new ambulance station traffic management will have on Ocean Beach Rd.
Who believes it will be successful?
If the advice by Mr Wiffen and myself was adopted by the council, there would be at least three changes.
Planning instruments would become rigid, staff skills would improve and experts would need to be consulted.
SOURCE:
Letter, 4 May 2023
Norm Harris, Umina