Colac and district’s leading business advocate has challenged Colac Otway Shire Council to improve public perception of its planning department.
Business chief challenges shire planners
3 Responses to “Business chief challenges shire planners”
Comments are closed.
Perception does not always equal reality Mr Riordan. From your comments you state that you are involved in the building industry, so It comes as a huge shock that you would hold the view that you do. I am a ratepayer, and as a result having no conflict of interest can speak on this topic impartially and without an ulterior motive. All one has to do is look at examples where planning departments have opened the flood gates. Queensland in the late 70’s and 80;’s is a great example of where unsustainable development which occurred through planning departments not being thorough and having an “anything goes” attitude. Whilst I support development, using hearsay evidence based on no fact Mr Riordan unfairly defames our planning department who on the whole in my unbiased view does a great job.
The problem with the planning dept. is that our shire leaders don’t think there is a problem. As someone who deals with the construction and building industry everyday there is a large degree of dissatisfaction. Eveyone appreciates the complex role a planning dept has in maintaining council policies, and this does not always meet with developers wishes. However, the Shire also has a duty to its ratepayers, who provide it income and employment to be quick, efficient and consistant. The perception in the community of the helpfullness and preparedness of the shire to assist development is very poor.
Yep, have to agree. Talk to people who have dealt with the planning department and you’ll find many are unhappy.
And just how many is Mr Green’s “vast majority”? Pity there has to be any complaints at all.