COMMUNITY VOICE SHAPES LUNA PARK POLICY 8 December 2018 The NSW Government has confirmed that the open space character of Lavender Green will remain unaffected by planning changes, which make it easier for Luna Park to install new rides, following feedback from the community. Minister for Planning, Anthony Roberts, said the policy changes meant new rides could be introduced at Luna Park in time for the Christmas holidays. “In just under a month of consultation, we received more than 1400 submissions on proposed amendments to the state planning policy. An overwhelming number of submissions, nearly 90 per cent, were in support of the changes, but some in the community also raised concerns about the future of Lavender Green.” Minister Roberts said. Member for North Shore Felicity Wilson MP said the decision is a win for the community - “Lavender Green has been removed from the policy and rides and amusements will not be allowed to be installed there through exempt or complying development.” “Strict protections around safety, visual impacts, noise, lighting and heritage will also remain in place to make sure impacts to residents are maintained at current levels and public safety requirements remain in force.” “It means any development under this amended policy will still need to meet strict conditions on height limits, as well as operational and location-specific rules. “They will also need to comply with the broader heritage, noise and lighting controls that already apply to the site,” she said. The changes follow a recent Land and Environment Court decision that meant Luna Park would need to seek a new development application each time a ride was moved or replaced. Minister Roberts said under the changes, Luna Park will be able to introduce new, low impact rides and amusements through a simpler planning pathway provided they continue to meet strict criteria. “Luna Park is an iconic part of Sydney Harbour and thousands of Australians and tourists have enjoyed a fun day out with friends and family here,” Minister Roberts said. “These changes will ensure Luna Park can continue operating this Christmas and into the future. “The community is at the heart of everything we do. In response to submissions we have also inserted a clause that requires neighbours within 20 metres of Luna Park to be notified ahead of any works being carried out for rides that are approved through complying development and we’ve also prohibited the use of strobe lighting for exempt and complying rides and amusements. “These changes will ensure the fun can continue at Luna Park over the Christmas holidays and beyond, while maintaining the existing conditions,” Minister Roberts said. For more information, visit www.planning.nsw.gov.au/lunaparksepp |
