Rural Fire Service – Further discussions

Comments (below) received from the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) dated 15 July 2021 stated, in part, that PP005, as exhibited:

“…has not adequately addressed the strategic bush fire planning principles and bush fire study requirements detailed in section 4 of Planning for Bushfire Protection 2019 (PBP) … and that “the NSW RFS [RFS] is not satisfied that the proposal is consistent with the [Ministerial] directions.”.

As a result, discussions have been held involving the RFS, the Planning Delivery Unit (PDU) and Biodiversity Conservation Branch (BCD) of the NSW Department of Planning, Industry & Environment (DPIE), the proponent and Council. Arising from those discussions, the key areas of concern to the RFS have been identified as:

• the extent of interface with adjoining bushland
• perimeter roads are required around the full development footprint
• alternate access essential
• APZs.

It is expected that the outcomes from these discussions and how they can be addressed will be included in a report to Council in early 2022.

Note: The NSW Council Elections are scheduled for 4 December 2021. As the caretaker period commences on 4 November 2021, the project lifecycle has been updated accordingly.