New South Wales seems to be descending into a scenario where a curtain of darkness hides what is supposed to be the transparency of decision making.
Until now, permission to demolish buildings involved lodging a development application with the local council . That law is being changed to allow consent to be granted by a private " certifier ".
This law change will not apply to buildings that are heritage listed - or which form part of an area of heritage significance - but what it does is remove the opportunity for public scrutiny where a formal application awaits council approval.
There are many buildings and structures which do not fall under heritage listing, but form part of the historical background of our journey from colony to state. It is only when demolition is suggested that many people seriously consider their preservation - and unless this law change is prevented that will happen before the intention is realised.
Slowly and surely the checks and balances provided by municipal laws are being rescinded and replaced with decision by government authority. It seems that those in Macquarie street tire of public demonstrations seeking to stop developers replacing our heritage with money spinning eye sores.
Developers are noted contributors to the election funds of politicians and it seems that this law change is intended to smoothe the way to faster project approval - with less opportunity for public protest to emerge.
Neither politician nor developer would welcome public scrutiny of this cloak and dagger operation !
No comments:
Post a Comment