Applications Sought to Join Our Local Planning Panel
Published on 06 June 2024
Applications Sought from Community Members Interested in Joining the Local Planning Panel
Members of the Wingecarribee Shire community are invited to join the Wingecarribee Shire Council’s Local Planning Panel (LPP). Established on 26 March 2021, the LPP assists in determining development applications previously referred to the Council, ensuring procedural checks and balances without hindering the planning system’s functionality.
Jon Shillito, Manager of Development Assessment and Regulation, emphasised, "Engaging local residents in the Local Planning Panel ensures our community’s perspectives are integral to the decision-making process, fostering transparency and accountability."
The LPP meets on the fourth Wednesday of each month at the Council Chamber, Civic Centre, Elizabeth Street, Moss Vale, with meetings live-streamed for public access. The panel comprises three independent experts and one independent community member, assessing certain development applications and providing planning advice.
The types of applications reviewed by the LPP are detailed in the Local Planning Panels Direction dated 6 September 2023, covering Development Applications and Applications to Modify Consents. Wingecarribee Shire Council falls under Schedule 1 of this document, available on Council’s website.
For councils required to have a local planning panel, the appointment process includes selecting chairs and independent expert members approved by the Minister for Planning and Public Spaces. Community representatives are recruited and appointed by the councils. Mayors, councillors, property developers, and real estate agents are ineligible.
What are we looking for?
We are seeking individuals who:
- Reside in the Wingecarribee Shire
- Have some understanding of the planning system
- Appreciate the unique issues of the Southern Highlands community
Benefits of being a member:
- Gain valuable experience in local government planning
- Contribute to the future development of the Shire
- Receive an allowance for your time and expertise
Application forms, selection criteria, and information are available online at: Participate Wingecarribee
Nominations close at 9 am on Monday, 17 June 2024. For more information, contact Jon Shillito at 4868 0888 or mail@wsc.nsw.gov.au.