What is a Development Control Plan (DCP)?


    A DCP is a planning document which provides information to guide development in the City. It is the companion document to the Local Environmental Plan (LEP), and provides guidance on:

    1. achieving the aims of the LEP,
    2. facilitating permissible development, and
    3. achieving the objectives of relevant land use zones.

    Why has Blue Mountains City Council (BMCC) prepared a DCP?

    The Council was required by the Department of Planning and Environment to prepare a LEP in the standard format (the Standard Instrument). Therefore, a DCP is required to support the aims and objectives of this new LEP.

    What is the function of a DCP?

    The LEP provides the legal framework for development in the City. The DCP is the supporting document which provides detailed guidance for development permitted by the LEP.

    What happened to the other DCPs?

    The new DCP consolidates current DCPs into a single Plan, including the Better Living DCP and other DCPs.

    When will the DCP come into force?

    The date of commencement of the DCP will depend on the progress of the draft LEP. The DCP will commence following the making of the LEP by the Minister for Planning. On 11 November 2014, Council will consider a report to finalise the review of submissions process of DLEP 2014 and make a decision to send the final Plan to the Department with a request that the Plan be made.

    When will the DCP be exhibited?

    The draft DCP will be on public exhibition from 29 October 2014 to 10 December 2014. The draft DCP is advertised in accordance with the requirements of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2000.

    Where can I find a copy?

    More information about the draft DCP 2014 can be found online at bluemountainshaveyoursay.com.au/draftdcp2014, and printed copies of the draft DCP are available at Council’s Springwood and Katoomba offices, and at Blaxland, Springwood and Katoomba libraries.

    Who can I ask if I have a question?

    Council’s Planners are available to answer questions at Council’s Katoomba office (9am – 2pm Monday to Friday), or call - Lower Mountains (02) 4723 5996 or Upper Mountains (02) 4780 5996 or enquirydcp2014@bmcc.nsw.gov.au.

    How do I make a submission?

    Written submissions on the draft DCP 2014 can be made by online submission at bluemountainshaveyoursay.com.au/draftdcp2014, by email at submissiondcp2014@bmcc.nsw.gov.au, or by letter addressed to the General Manager, posted to Locked Bag 1005, Katoomba NSW 2780. Submissions are to identify ‘DCP Submission’ in the subject line.

    How is the DCP structured?

    The DCP has been structured to align with contemporary models. Volume 1 contains general controls that apply to most development. Volume 2 contains controls for specific types of development and for specific precincts. The figure below illustrates the broad structure of the document.