Released 25/07/2017
The Government is proposing changes to the solar access rules to simplify them and meet community requests for changes, Minister for Planning and Land Management Mick Gentleman said today.
“Territory Plan Draft Variation 346 proposes changes to solar access provisions introduced with Territory Plan Variation 306 to better meet the needs of industry and the community without adversely impacting on the principle of ensuring good solar access for residential development,” Minister Gentleman said.
“The changes follow a review of the current solar access provisions to ensure they are meeting the desired outcomes, and included consultation with a working group comprising architects, building and planning industry professionals and community association representatives.
“The solar access provisions control the extent to which shadows cast by development on one block impact a neighbouring block. The new provisions allow slightly more shadow from a block on the northern boundary, but are designed so the shadow at the winter solstice (the longest shadow) will be minimal.
“At the same time the provisions allow homeowners to build closer to the southern boundary than has previously been allowed and therefore allocate more space on the sunny north side of a home.
“The provisions also strengthen requirements relating to solar access for internal daytime living areas.
“The changes would apply to dwellings constructed on mid-size and compact blocks approved on or after 5 July 2013, when Variation 306 was implemented, and to all large blocks.
“The Coombs and Wright Concept Plan would be amended, but not the existing Coombs and Wright Precinct Maps and Codes. This will protect the interface between new and existing homes in this location, which are currently subject to more restrictive rules, while also ensuring any new estates or sub-divisions will comply with the new provisions.
“The Government will also commence a review of the Estate Development Code in order to ensure good solar outcomes are achieved through the design of subdivisions.”
“The aim of the solar access provisions is to ensure adequate solar access for residential development, to protect the solar access of neighbouring blocks and encourage the design of houses with good solar amenity.
“The current provisions are achieving these aims but certain elements were identified that require adjustment in order to better meet the needs and expectations of the community and industry,” Minister Gentleman concluded.
Consultation on the proposed draft variation is open until 7th April 2016 and can be seen at www.planning.act.gov.au.
- Statement ends -
Mick Gentleman, MLA | Media Releases
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