What is a planning proposal?

    A planning proposal is a document which explains the changes which are proposed to an environmental planning instrument. In this case, the Wollondilly Local Environmental Plan 2011.

    This explanation is provided through text and images (usually plans).

    What is the process for preparing a local environmental plan?

    The plan making process normally involves the following key components?

    • the preparation of a planning proposal
    • the issuing of a Gateway determination by the NSW Government
    • community and other consultation on the planning proposal (as required)
    • finalising the planning proposal
    • drafting of the LEP (legal instrument)
    • making the plan
    • notifying the LEP on the NSW Government Legislation website.

    What is a Gateway determination?

    A planning proposal, once prepared, is forwarded to the Minister for Planning and Public Space or the Greater Sydney Commission (GSC) for Gateway consideration.

    A Gateway determination is issued by the Minister, GSC or delegate. The Gateway determination will generally indicate the following:

    • whether the planning proposal should proceed (with or without variation)
    • whether any studies are required 
    • whether the planning proposal should be resubmitted for any reason
    • the community consultation requirements
    • any consultation required with state or Commonwealth authorities
    • whether a public hearing is to be held
    • the timeframe for completing the various stages of the process for making the proposed LEP
    • whether the function of making the eLEP is to be exercised by the Minister, GSC or delegated to the Council (or another authority)

    Is my submission confidential?

    Council may be required to release written comments or submissions to an application under the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 or the Local Government Act 1993, which impose obligations on us to release documents in certain circumstances.

    Will the proposed amendments allow land to be subdivided?

    None of the proposed amendments is intended to rezone land or change the minimum lot size for subdivision so that land can be subdivided.

    What are the future plans for my area?

    Wollondilly 2040 Local Strategic Planning Statement outlines Wollondilly's vision for land use planning over the next 20 years.

    This vision is for a prosperous, sustainable and resilient future for Wollondilly residents, with an enviable lifestyle of historic villages, modern living, rural lands and bush settings.

    What is this amendment about?

    The planning proposal explains changes proposed to the Wollondilly Local Environmental Plan 2011. The local environmental plan is a statutory document that guides planning decisions for the Wollondilly Local Government Area.

    Changes to the local environmental plan are required to follow a formal process known as the Gateway process.

    The planning proposal includes over 35 amendments, implementing 5 objectives summarised below:

    • Increase opportunities for visitor economy related developments;
    • Ensuring sustainable tourism by protecting the agricultural production, scenic and environmental values of land;
    • Recognise the visitor economy as a core objective for development;
    • Strengthening the role and function of employment land;
    • Minimising or avoiding the impact of bush fire hazard.