Have your say on the draft City Wide Contributions Plan 2020

Local residents now have the opportunity to provide feedback on the draft City Wide Infrastructure Contributions Plan which goes on public exhibition for 28 days starting today. 

The draft Plan aims to provide a basis for the levying and collection of development contributions for the provision of things like road maintenance and upgrades, cycleways, community facilities, recreation and sporting facilities and open space. 

Section 7.11 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act) enables Council to levy contributions on development to assist in the cost of providing the community with public amenities, facilities and services that are required as a result of demand created by that development. 

Cessnock City Mayor, Councillor Bob Pynsent is encouraging local residents to review the draft Plan and provide their feedback. 

“New development is positive for our region but it’s important that there’s a balance and ratepayers aren’t burdened by the cost of infrastructure generated by it.” 

“This Plan will streamline all existing documents into one new complete plan and will provide more up to date information on development contributions moving forward,” added Cr Pynsent. 

This draft Plan is the culmination of a complete review of all the existing development contribution plans currently implemented by Cessnock City Council and once adopted, it will replace all existing Section 7.11 (formerly Section 94) plans into one. 

It also aligns with Council's Recreation and Open Space Strategic Plan, Cessnock Cycling Strategy, Aquatic Needs Analysis, Skate and BMX Needs Assessment, Cessnock LGA Traffic and Transport Strategy and Community Infrastructure Strategic Plan.  

For those wanting to view the draft City Wide Infrastructure Contribution Plan, it will be made available on Council’s website at www.cessnock.nsw.gov.au, at Cessnock City Libraries and Council’s Customer Service Centre.  

 2/19/2020