Council’s pitch for government to streamline planning approvals

The new Health & Innovation Masterplan is part of an appeal by Orange City Council to have the precinct named as an Activation Zone by the state government.

Making the area an Activation Zone would ensure that potential investors would benefit from a coordinated approach to land use and infrastructure planning and have the best access to NSW Government incentives.

Special Activation Precincts (SAP) are being put forward by the NSW Government as part of the $4.2 billion Snowy Hydro Legacy Fund.

The Department of Planning, Industry and Environment has developed measures for a proposed state-wide framework of Activation Precincts to simplify and streamline planning processes in Special Activation Precincts.

Sites in Parkes and Wagga Wagga have been identified as SAPS.

The Wagga Wagga Special Activation Precinct focuses on the inland rail and advanced manufacturing, agribusiness, and freight and logistics.

Parkes focuses on the Inland Rail project and improved freight logistics.

Special Activation Precincts contain these core components:

• Government-led Studies: These studies are strategic environmental and planning technical reports to help identify the most suitable and compatible land uses and the infrastructure required, along with identifying site opportunities and constraints. Market analysis and economic forecasts will help identify industry specialisations.
• Fast track planning: A bespoke planning instrument will allow for simplified planning processes for development within the precincts. This will reduce timeframes for obtaining approvals and provide certainty and confidence to businesses and the community.
• Government-led development: The NSW Government may coordinate land activation where master planning and a business case justify Government investment. This will enhance development and investment in the Special Activation Precincts, as well as supporting industry specialisation required through land amalgamation.
• Infrastructure investment: Infrastructure investment may be required to assist in removing barriers to development or investment. Infrastructure may include traffic and transport infrastructure, essential services and utilities digital connectivity and - and other site-specific infrastructure. Business concierge: A business concierge service will actively manage precinct investor support. This support will include project management, industry investment, infrastructure delivery, environmental regulation, planning and certification.