COUNCIL has resolved to investigate and recommend amendments to the Dungog Local Environment Plan (LEP) 2014 to facilitate increased housing and employment in rural areas.

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According to the motion put forward by Cr Fred Paton and endorsed by councillors at the 20 November meeting, amendments could include changes to minimum lot sizes, and the permissibility of land uses and dwelling entitlements.

A report will now be developed to examine the impact on the provision of housing in the Shire if the “Existing Holding” date of 1 July 2003 was amended to 1 July 2023, as referred to in Clause 4.2A of Dungog LEP 2014.

“Throughout the Shire there are a number of holdings, many 20 acres or more in some areas, where due to the history of the property, a dwelling house currently cannot be approved,” a Dungog Shire Council spokesperson said in a statement.

“It is possible that up to 100 holdings, capable of accommodating a dwelling, with minimal environmental impact, could be made available for families seeking a rural lifestyle, or the option for owners to be able to stay on the property if they wish to work them.”

Cr Paton noted the 1 July 2003 date is arbitrary and was set by the Council.