5 February 2009

Archicentre Backs Victorian Government on Fast Track Planning Reforms

Archicentre, the building advisory service of the Australian Institute of Architects today backed the Victorian Government's plan to fast track planning of major projects to create jobs and stimulate economic development and urged the government to go further and for other States to follow.

Robert Caulfield

Robert Caulfield Managing Director of Archicentre said the Government move to fast track projects stuck in the costly planning maze will create thousands of jobs and stimulate the economy through employment and the manufacture of products. "We would urge the Victorian Government to extend its fast track approach into the small scale residential area where there is a reported 1800 cases being held up in the planning appeals system representing tens of thousands of jobs for small builders and tradespeople. "The majority of this work involves small projects such as renovations in heritage areas and small unit and townhouse developments which could decrease the pressure on the urban sprawl. "Typically these types of projects can be held up for twelve to eighteen months at local council level before they even get to planning appeal, adding tens of thousands of dollars to their costs and eroding affordability."

Mr Caulfield said the delays through the planning system come at a high cost to people wanting to renovate and improve their homes because of the complicated planning process which can see tens of thousands of dollars spent on studies and reports for projects that might or might not be approved.

"Anything Premier John Brumby does to make the planning system more efficient and responsible for the economic outcomes it produces in employment and investment will be welcomed by all Victorians in the current global crisis and we urge all other State Governments to follow his lead and even go further," Mr Caulfield added.

www.archicentre.com.au