Safety first for Ingleside

The NSW Government has announced that proposed development plans for Ingleside will not proceed after an independent bushfire risk assessment found the 2016 draft plan would put future residents in danger.

Both the Department of Planning and Environment and Council agree that continuing with the draft plan in its current form would introduce unacceptable risk to the community.

An independent assessment was undertaken, including a peer review of previous studies and report on bushfires in the area and in line with the latest research and NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS)’ latest risk assessment requirements. The report found the draft plan would put the community at risk.

Plans have been put on hold while further investigations around evacuation are undertaken.

The evacuation assessment, as well as consultation with landowners will help determine whether any further development could safely exist in the area.

A Ministerial direction will be issued to provide certainty for both the Council and the community by ensuring the assessment of any planning proposal to rezone land in the area considers the independent bushfire risk assessment results.

For further details: Department of Planning and Environment