Wingecarribee Shire Council is calling on interested persons to help guide future residential development across the Southern Highlands.
As part of a major review of low and medium density residential development controls across the Shire, Council is inviting interested community and industry representatives to take part in an upcoming public information and consultation session.
The review is being undertaken as two separate projects with community and industry consultation for the medium density residential controls review being held on Tuesday 21 June 2022. Consultation for the review of the low-density residential development controls will take place in July.
Council's Executive Manager Strategic Outcomes Michael Park said the reviews of the existing residential development controls were a critical step in the implementation of the Shire's Local Housing Strategy.
"Our Shire is growing, and our housing needs are changing," he said. "It's therefore important that our planning framework continues to evolve to ensure we continue to meet the needs of our community."
"There is a clear need to support a greater mix of housing types and provide our diverse community with appropriate choices and options when it comes to housing.
"At the same time, it's equally important that we retain and protect the unique character and identities of our Highland towns and villages."
Mr Park said community input was vital in achieving the right balance of future housing development.
"The new planning framework will guide residential development across the Shire over the coming years," he said. "We're seeking input from the community and industry to help shape the controls and ensure we strike the right balance between supporting housing diversity and protecting and enhancing our local character."
Mr Park said the reviews would also help streamline future assessments and approvals.
"These reviews will ensure we're more responsive to future housing needs that are in-line with our community's expectations."
Both projects are supported and funded by the NSW Government's Planning Delivery Unit.
Council's free Medium Density Community and Industry Consultation Evening will be held on Tuesday 21 June from 4pm to 6pm in Council's Moss Vale Civic Centre Theatrette.
Community and industry representatives interested in taking part in the review of Council's medium density residential development controls can register their interest at www.eventbrite.com.au/e/medium-density-community-industry-consultation-tickets-358299993927.
