With more than its fair share of abandoned and derelict building sites scattered across the LGA, Port Stephens Council has taken steps to lobby for increased legislative powers to manage such sites.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Port councillors voted unanimously at its August 13 meeting to lodge a motion at the upcoming Local Government Conference to review council powers when dealing with derelict sites.
Port Stephens will be represented at the conference, to take place from October 14-16 at Sydney's Warwick Farm, by mayor Ryan Palmer, Jaimie Abbott, Giacomo Arnott, Paul Le Mottee and Steve Tucker.
Vandalised and neglected sites within Port Stephens include Anna Bay's resort, former Tilligerry Plaza [earmarked for seniors housing], former Williamtown Public School and the former Karuah Hotel property.
A council report stated that the community looked to the council to manage derelict sites which impact upon the public domain.
"The council has been requested by the community to respond to a number of complaints regarding derelict sites, which become a concern for various reasons including amenity concerns, crime and anti-social behaviour, impact on tourism and businesses and property values," the report said.
"In seeking to resolve these concerns councils have limited legislative powers to compel property owners to manage derelict sites. The current wording in the legislation is subjective and open to challenge and stronger definitions are required.
"In addition, the Orders process does not allow for a timely resolution to an issue. The complexities of derelict building management requires review by the NSW government."
