Northern Beaches Council today welcomed amendments to planning laws by the state government that puts a cap of 12 units on new boarding house developments in low density residential areas.

Mayor Michael Regan said Council and the community had fought hard to bring common sense to the boarding house rules to prevent a proliferation of 100-unit developments in quiet suburban streets.

“This is a win for sensible planning,” Mayor Regan said.

“I am pleased our numerous representations to the Minister have been heard.

“Before these changes, profit-driven developers were able to exploit the state government rules with major impacts on local neighbourhoods and Council had little power to stop them.

“The new 12-unit cap will see developments that are more in keeping with the established character of our residential neighbourhoods. And that’s what we need here on the Northern Beaches.

“Our high rents make it hard for many people to get by and we desperately need some viable affordable housing options.

“This cap will help get us the right housing, for the right cost, for those who need it, rather than line the pockets of big developers.”

Mayor Regan said the changes would not have gone through without the concerted campaign from Northern Beaches residents.

“I’d like to acknowledge the passion and dedication from many in our community who worked with Council to advocate for these changes.

“When Council and community speak with one voice we can have a real impact.”

Mayor Regan said the changes would apply only to new applications. He said Council would continue to fight any current boarding house applications that were out of step with local planning controls.