Change to the Requirement of a CHMP for Some Developments

Change to the Requirement of a CHMP for Some Developments

There has recently been a change to the requirement for a Cultural Heritage Management Plan (CHMP) that will assist with many small developments.

Previously the main exemptions from requiring a CHMP related to developments of two or less dwellings, or subdivision of an existing building. but now an additional exemption has been introduced. This exemption is: The development of three or more dwellings on, or the subdivision of, a lot or allotment if it is:

  • Less than 0.11 hectares (1100sqm) in size; and
  • Not within 200 metres of the coast or the Murray River

This means that many current or proposed developments will no longer require a CHMP to be prepared.  This will be a significant saving of time and money and will hopefully streamline the process more.

The amendment has also brought in a number of other changes including the introduction of a preliminary voluntary test to determine if a Cultural Heritage Management Plan is required for a specific site (when the above exemptions don’t apply).  This has come about to provide certainty to both applicants and Councils and ensure that the need or otherwise of a CHMP is determined early on in the planning process.