Candidate for Port Macquarie-Hastings Council Jeff Styles has raised the issue of the planning system implemented by State Government through councils and called for Council to investigate ways of making the system easier to comply with and less complicated.
Mr Styles said that people’s houses and land, as well as small businesses were of particular interest to him when it comes to local government working with people to help them progress in life.
“I would like to see the State and local governments work with people to help them get ahead in life.
"From my point of view, the planning system involves too many obstacles for people to negotiate and gaining the necessary approvals, certificates etc. can often be an extremely lengthy and costly process.
"People’s lives can be put on hold for too long whilst this drawn out process is in play.”
Mr Styles said that he believes some major reforms may need to occur to make development and planning easier for people to adhere to.
“Governments are there by the people, for the people. I really believe that for the community to thrive, Council needs to do everything possible to help its community progress.
"If something is imposed on communities that councils have reason to believe is not going to help the local region, then I believe it is reasonable for councils to stand up and say to the State or Commonwealth, ‘There are problems with these guidelines, this legislation or this proposal’.”
Mr Styles said that a simple, easy-to-understand system is important when it came to the local economy and living standards.