Northern Beaches Council has formally adopted key amendments to the Manly, Warringah, and Pittwater Development Control Plans (DCPs) that will ensure sustainable, well-designed growth under the NSW Government’s Low and Mid-Rise Housing (LMRH) reforms.

Under the State (LMRH) reforms, dual occupancies, townhouses, terraces and small apartment buildings are now permitted in areas close to several centres where previously only houses were permitted. In addition, larger scale apartments of 4-6 storeys are now permitted near centres where flat buildings of only 2-3 storeys were previously permitted.

Mayor Sue Heins said “The Low and Mid-Rise Housing (LMRH) reforms are a State Government instrument that is now something we have to comply with and these updates to our Development Control Plans mean that even though there are State reforms we continue to set high standards for design, sustainability, and neighbourhood character. 

“Council’s role is to balance the need for more diverse housing with the need to protect what makes our suburbs special. These new controls set clearer requirements for issues like landscaping, urban design, heritage, and sustainability, so new developments fit better with the character and amenity of our established neighbourhoods.”

Feedback from the community helped shape refinements to the DCPs, including adjustments to tree planting and deep soil requirements, clarification of height controls, minor changes to side setbacks, and updated provisions for heritage areas and EV charging.

“We appreciate the community’s strong engagement with this process. Their feedback was instrumental in refining these amendments to reflect local expectations and priorities.

“Council is committed to planning for a vibrant, liveable, and sustainable future for the Northern Beaches. These changes strike a balance between accommodating growth and respecting the fabric of our community.” Mayor Heins said.

For more information on the adopted DCP amendments and the Low and Mid-Rise Housing reforms, visit the Northern Beaches Council Your Say page.