Network calls for consultation on submission numbers
Changed requirements for the operation of the Local Planning Panel should be subject to public consultation, according to the Community Environment Network.
It has asked for public consultation about the Central Coast Council resolution in November to double the number of submissions, from 10 to 20, required to refer development applications to the Panel.
It said the council should comply with a Ministerial Direction issued in May which required councils to follow their existing submissions policy or refer applications being "the subject of 10 or more unique submissions by way of objection".
"There doesn't appear to be an existing Submissions Policy," said Network chair Mr Gary Chestnut.
But the Central Coast Council did have an Assessment of Development Applications Policy, which specified the number of submissions at 10, he said.
Any new or amended council policies changing the submission numbers should be publicly exhibited, he said.
Otherwise, the number set by the Ministerial Direction was 10 unique submissions.
The council resolution stated: "That this policy be submitted to the Department of Planning for approval."
This seems to imply a request that the Minister issue a new Direction to make special provisions for Central Coast Council.
"We have referred this matter to the Minister for the Central Coast and his parliamentary colleagues," said Mr Chestnut.
SOURCE:
Media release, 13 Dec 2025
Gary Chestnut, Community Environment Network