Town Planning

While all communities are made up of individuals with different tastes, needs and lifestyles, some values are common to all:

• Sanitation and Clean water
• Fresh air
• A clean environment
• Open space
• Access to services

Some form of overall planning is necessary to ensure these basic values are met and that community resources are effectively and economically used. Planning is vital for the orderly expansion of new housing and industry, while also protecting parts of the landscape which contribute to achieving our shared values. It is important that the planning process considers a range of factors before making any decisions.

Such considerations include:

• The quality of our natural environments;
• Scarce resources;
• Preservation of landscape features;
• Promoting local growth and employment; and
• General and social equity.

At the local level, planning is concerned with three main areas:

• Land use
• Subdivision
• Development control

Planning in essence seeks to maximise our opportunities as a community, while maintaining the balance between environmental, social and economic sustainability.

Download a copy of the Guide To Planning Handout