FAQs
What is a Development Control Plan (DCP)?
Blue Mountains Development Control Plan 2015 (DCP) provide detailed planning and design controls to supplement the provisions of Blue Mountains Local Environmental Plan 2015 (the LEP). The Blue Mountains DCP was adopted by Council on 26 March 2015 and came into effect on the 15 February 2016. Amendments to the DCP have been made since its initial adoption as the need has arisen.
What changes are proposed to be made to the DCP?
The proposed amendments seek to improve development outcomes across the LGA by introducing new controls, and enhancing existing controls, primarily relating to environmental management, sustainability and low-density development. A small number of additional minor amendments have been made outside of these key focus areas to address matters raised by internal staff and improve the useability of the DCP document.
What is the legislative process to amend a DCP?
NSW planning legislation pertaining to Development Control Plans (DCPs) is contained within Part 3, Division 3.6 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 and Part 2 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2021. The proposed changes to Blue Mountains DCP 2015 are publicly exhibited for a minimum of 28 days pursuant to Council’s Community Participation Plan.
What are the next steps?
Following public exhibition, Council planning staff will consider any submissions received and prepare a report for consideration at a meeting of Council. The report will include recommendations to Council on the adoption of proposed changes to the DCPs (with or without amendment in response to submissions received). If adopted, the changes would then come into effect on a date to be determined and notified in the local newspaper, typically within 2-3 weeks of the Council meeting date.