The final stage in a series of amendments to the local planning framework comes into effect today, aimed at developing the visitor experience and boosting the economy in the Wollondilly Shire.

The changes to the Wollondilly Local Environmental Plan 2011 will increase opportunities for developments related to the visitor economy, particularly on rural land, while ensuring the scale is appropriate and any potential impacts are managed.

Mayor Matt Gould said, “I’m delighted to see these changes take effect, which will remove red tape and make it easier to develop tourism offerings in the Shire, while also supporting local businesses and communities in their recovery from the impacts of drought, bushfires, recent flood events and the COVID-19 pandemic.”

“Wollondilly’s natural and rural areas underpin our vision to develop the visitor experience and economy, inspiring walking trails and tours, biking experiences, wellness activities, function and conference centres.”

“I’m really looking forward to seeing Wollondilly’s quality agriculture and horticulture provide opportunities for agritourism, expanded farm-based tourism and generating income streams now that these changes to the LEP have come into effect.”

The proposed changes include:

• Expanding areas (land use zones) where certain development is permissible, such as tourist and visitor accommodation, restaurants and cafes, and recreation facilities in rural zones.
• Creating a clear planning pathway for the temporary use of land for visitor economy uses, such as camping grounds, food and drink premises and markets.
• Embedding tourist land uses as a core objective for relevant land use zones.

The changes are supported by local provisions to ensure tourist facilities in rural and natural areas are small scale and do not adversely impact on existing farms, rural uses and industries, and scenic or sensitive land.

The changes to the Wollondilly Local Environmental Plan 2011 Amendment No 44 – Developing the Visitor Economy and Employment Land Uses Planning Proposal (LEP Review Program Stage 2) were on public exhibition in late 2021 and are now available on the NSW Legislation website https://legislation.nsw.gov.au/epub?bulletin=20230709