7.
Key recommendation areas
Based on the project drivers and strategic principles outlined in the
This can include clearer application of buffers and the articulation of
previous two sections, and in addressing the key issues identified in
Council’s approach to applying these – for example the agent of change
Part 3 of this Background Paper, the following six recommendation
approach as recommended by the NSW Agricultural Commissioner.
areas for future actions have been identified.
7.1
Facilitate effective land use planning for rural areas
It also seeks to identify and recognise the need for some planning flexibility to ensure that agricultural activities can remain viable, particularly on Far North Coast Farmland Mapping areas, such as review of subdivision controls that do not create additional dwelling
This includes opportunities to review and refine the use of zones,
entitlements.
seeking to meet both the desired outcome of retaining high quality
To support LEP provisions, there may be a need to review the DCP to
agricultural land, whilst also enabling flexibility in other areas where these uses can meet other needs. This review would be timely considering Council’s existing zones and applicable land uses has not been thoroughly revised in the past decade. This direction can also be backed by improvements to Council’s own policies, creating greater consistency and a clearer pathway for rural land use planning into the future. On the conservation zone side, this action area would also recognise
support the intended outcomes. This may again support greater use and clarity around the use of buffers to agricultural activities based on current DPI best practice – noting that the NSW Agricultural Commissioner has also identified the need for review in this area. Review of buffers for environmental protection and hazard purposes are also recognised for protection of biodiversity and to facilitate environmental outcomes.
opportunities to better incorporate land of significant or important environmental value into an appropriate zone. This could include lands that are reserved in perpetuity for conservation, as well as high value biodiversity areas where retention can be important for environmental reasons. This area also seeks to review existing land use planning controls to better recognise and define assessment considerations that can facilitate long-term improvements to dealing with land use conflicts.
Clarence Valley Council Rural Lands Strategy – Background Paper
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