Lake Macquarie City Council has a rich heritage, with locally listed heritage items and heritage conservation areas playing a pivotal role in preserving the region’s historical significance. The Lake Macquarie Local Environmental Plan 2014 sets the stage for land use regulations, particularly through Clause 5.10 Heritage Conservation, which delineates the guidelines for heritage and development within the area.
Heritage items encompass a wide array of structures, including houses, schools, churches, bridges, and more. These items are carefully listed under Schedule 5 to ensure their preservation and prevent any detrimental alterations that could compromise their historical value. For properties within Heritage Conservation Areas like West Wallsend, Teralba, and Catherine Hill Bay, specific rules govern development to maintain the area’s unique heritage character.
Supporting the Local Environmental Plan is the Lake Macquarie Development Control Plan 2014, offering detailed guidance for Development Applications. Part 11 of this plan focuses on Heritage Area Plans, covering various heritage-rich regions within Lake Macquarie such as Boolaroo, Toronto, and Dudley. These plans, along with the Heritage Guidelines, provide a roadmap for development within these historically significant areas.
When it comes to planning and approvals for works on heritage sites, properties containing heritage items, or those situated in heritage conservation areas, Council consent is paramount. Depending on the nature and scope of the development, a Local Exemption Application or Development Application may be necessary to assess the impact on the heritage significance of the site.
For minor works or maintenance that do not compromise the heritage value of an item or area, a local Heritage Exemption application can streamline the approval process. This avenue allows for quick assessments by Council’s Development Planner Heritage, ensuring that low-impact projects can proceed smoothly.
While exempt and complying developments offer pathways for certain works, it’s crucial to navigate these processes with care. The State Environmental Planning Policy (Exempt and Complying Development Codes) 2008 outlines the criteria for such developments, highlighting the importance of considering heritage status in decision-making.
Adding new local heritage items involves a meticulous process, requiring solid evidence and resources. Lake Macquarie City Council has outlined specific requirements for nominating heritage items or conservation areas, emphasizing the need for a robust evidence base to support such additions.
In conclusion, Lake Macquarie’s commitment to heritage preservation underscores the region’s dedication to honoring its past and safeguarding its historical legacy for future generations.
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