Massive Progress on DC Legislation

Property Council is delighted with the Government’s progress on changing the way development contributions are charged.

Parliament has concluded its third reading of the Local Government Act 2002 Amendment Bill (No 3), which sets out key reforms to DCs legislation and the regime.

The bill will most likely become law this week.

This is a massive leap forward, and Property Council congratulates the Government in setting out a framework for fairer, and more transparent development contribution charges.

Property Council chief executive, Connal Townsend says no doubt there will still be challenges as legislation can often be limited.

“It will still come down to councils to ensure they comply with the new rules, in particular the principles provisions, which set out the basis for imposing any charges.”

“We will continue to work with Central Government and local councils to ensure the legislation is interpreted correctly and results in more equitable charging arrangements going forward.”

National guidance and strong leadership in the objections process is key to progress in this respect.

Important changes under the legislation include:

 Introducing a new purpose and principles provisions setting out the basis for development contribution charges

 Clarifying and narrowing the range of infrastructure that can be financed by development contributions

 Improving the transparency of territorial authorities policies, including requiring reporting on projects being funded by development contributions

 Encouraging greater private provision of infrastructure through the use of development agreements

 Restrictions on requiring development contributions for reserves

 Introducing an objections process, where decisions are made by independent decision makers

END.