Northern Beaches Mayor Michael Regan is calling for the Council to be given the power to issue Site Compatibility Certificates to ensure developments are in keeping with the local character, infrastructure and future plans for the Northern Beaches region.

Mayor Regan said Site Compatibility Certificates are currently issued by the State Government for seniors living developments.

Although not a development approval, it is the first step in the process for these types of developments and Council has no power to step in if the development is not appropriate.

“Northern Beaches Council is of sufficient size and scope to be able to take a region-wide strategic approach to development assessment across our extensive 250 square kilometre area,” Mayor Regan said.

“It’s difficult to appropriately plan for infrastructure and community services if we cannot plan strategically for the future.

“While the State Government issues a Site Compatibility Certificate for a development, it often falls to Council then to serve the development - providing the roads and other critical infrastructure the development needs to work.

“Council is best placed to make the decisions about these types of development in the first place. We have a more detailed appreciation of the local constraints and opportunities.”

Mayor Regan said he welcomed the intervention today by Local Member Rob Stokes who supports Council’s call.

“The recent Site Compatibility Certificates issues around Terrey Hills are a case in point and we share residents’ concern there,” Mayor Regan said.

“I am pleased to see Mr Stokes raising these issues with his own Planning Minister and backing Council’s call.

“This is an issue which affects development across the Northern Beaches and has a simple solution. It’s time to return the decision making to those who know best.

“I will be putting forward a Mayoral Minute for consideration at the next meeting of Council.”