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Council increases housing diversity within some business zones

Council has amended its Local Environmental Plan to permit a wider range of housing within some town centres.

Aerial shot of houses and streets.

4 September 2023

Bega Valley Shire Council has amended its Local Environmental Plan to permit a wider range of housing within some town centres.

Following approval by the NSW Minister for Planning, the amendment will open the door for housing and commercial developments within the Bega, Eden, Merimbula, Pambula and Tathra town centres.

Council’s Director Community, Environment and Planning, Emily Harrison said greater flexibility for developers and the provision of much-needed housing options are a double win.

“Houses, dual occupancies, multi-dwelling housing or residential flats can now be built as part of a mixed commercial and residential land use development,” Ms Harrison said.

“This ensures active street fronts are maintained in key commercial areas while providing accommodation options for key workers, business owners and our ageing population, above or behind commercial premises.”

The change implements actions identified in Council’s Residential Land Strategy 2040 and Commercial Land Strategy 2040, and links to our Affordable Housing Strategy by providing more affordable housing options and housing supply.

“We will continue to explore measures to support an increase in housing diversity to meet the needs of people who live and work in the shire, particularly older people, people with disability and the workforce rental market,” Ms Harrison said.

“The amendment responds to this housing need and provides opportunities for people to live closer to the goods and services they need.”

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