Housing was a hot topic at Lake Macquarie City Council’s February Standing Committee meeting, with Councillors discussing several proposals to increase local supply.
Councillors adopted two items on the Development and Planning Standing Committee agenda, including a move to progress a housing diversity planning proposal to permit a wider range of housing options across all residential zones.
It follows a written request from the State Minister for Planning and Public Spaces in November 2023 declaring New South Wales was in a housing crisis, including a request for local governments to increase housing options and diversity in their catchments.
Lake Macquarie Mayor Kay Fraser, who raised a Mayoral Minute at Council’s December 2023 Ordinary Meeting addressing the Minister’s letter and the housing crisis at large, said change was necessary to tackle the escalating issue.
“Lake Macquarie needs to ensure housing supply caters for the needs of changing demographics and ensures affordable options are available now and into the future,” she said.
“By 2036 couple families without children and lone person households will account for almost half of all households in our city.
“Allowing diverse and smaller homes supports more efficient use of infrastructure, development in residential zones, public transport viability and reduced living costs, ultimately increasing access to affordable housing.”
Councillors also adopted an amendment to the Lake Macquarie Development Control Plan 2014 to simplify the approval process for dwellings on undersized lots.
Councillors voted to defer determination on a proposed 12-unit strata subdivision in Charlestown pending a site inspection, following two presentations on the matter from community members in public forum.
Councillors also deferred determination on a planning proposal and development control plan changes for infill housing pending a councillor workshop.
The full agenda and reports are available at meeting agendas and minutes.
The stream of tonight’s meeting will be available online at lakemac.com.au within 48 hours.
