Structure Plans
A structure planning policy will be introduced as part of the planning system reforms. Structure plans will be prepared for all nominated growth precincts and other key sites, including TODs and fringe growth areas.
Structure plans outline the future ‘urban footprint’ of an area by setting the different proposed land uses (residential, commercial, community etc) and the location of roads, open space, community areas and infrastructure. Structure plans can also set outcomes and provide incentives for best practice water and energy efficiency early in the planning of a development.
The introduction of structure planning will:
- allow the resolution of all major land issues early in the planning process, and avoid the same issues being revisited at each stage of the planning and development process. This will provide greater certainty for developers, investors and the community and will reduce the need for subsequent referrals to Government agencies
- allow for more ‘as of right’ approvals for subsequent subdivision and development, and
- provide for up-front community engagement and public consultation.
Detailed guidelines for preparing structure plans are now being developed to ensure a consistent and comprehensive process is followed across all areas.
The guidelines will accommodate the different types of structure plans that may be required – from those dealing with large broadacre land developments in outer areas through to new developments or urban renewal projects such as TODs.
