At the Council meeting this week we resolved to continue our advocacy on the NSW Government's new one-size-fits-all housing policy.

The new policy effectively rezoned thousands of properties across the Northern Beaches overnight and will deliver many thousands more homes than have been envisaged in Council's strategic plans.

The new rules override our local planning rules and there are provisions that restrict Council's ability to refuse applications that meet the new standard planning controls.

The Government has offered no financial support, or even acknowledgment, of the burden imposed on councils to now plan for, fund and deliver the significant additional infrastructure for their communities.

Plus our bus system is failing to meet the needs of our residents now. A substantial increase in population without first addressing the chronic issues with transport will be disastrous.

We will continue to call on the Premier and relevant government ministers to tell our community how they will support their new policy with appropriate infrastructure and public transport.

On a lighter note, it’s a super busy few weeks on the Northern Beaches with events and activities to cater for all. Last weekend's Harmony Week Intercultural fair was a joyful celebration of the many cultures and backgrounds we are so lucky to have on the Beaches. Tomorrow you're invited to the Humans of the Northern Beaches Living Library event at Mona Vale. Our 'books' are locals with incredible stories to share.

If you like to get your hands dirty, come down tomorrow and join the tree planting day in Curl Curl. Or bring the kids to the St Matthews Farm Reserve Open Air Cinema tonight or tomorrow night – there's still time for you to grab a free ticket. And don’t forget the Seniors Festival packed program continues until the end of March.

Have a great weekend,

Mayor Sue Heins