Another email;
Yes, we are still working on the Planning Scheme and policy requirements for the split coding. The general thought is that if someone only wanted to the minimum required under the Residential Design Codes (design and development guidelines for residential uses) then they would develop at the lower code. If they met performance criteria such as renovating or demolishing the existing house where applicable, landscaping the verge, using ?water wise? drainage techniques, minimum frontages and lot sizes etc., then the higher code may be applied (Please note these are just examples of what may be in the Planning Scheme and Policy).
As far as the ?100% guarantee? that all this will happen, I?m afraid I cannot give this. The planners can only make recommendations to the Council (elected members) and they are within their rights to not agree with some or all of what is recommended. Council has adopted the Strategy, so at the time, they agreed with it. I cannot speak for what a Council may consider on the day something is presented to it. Following that, the amendment (rezoning) then has to be sent to the WA Planning Commission, where the planners there will review the proposal and ultimately make a recommendation to the Planning Minister, who in turn may or may not agree with the Council or WAPC planners. So where we are at in the process is for the Shire planners to make a recommendation to the Council to initiate the amendment.
I know this sounds convoluted (because it is) but there are many links in the chain, any of which could alter the intent of what we are after. The only time it is definite is when the Minister signs off on it.
