Builders and developers would be forced to construct smaller houses in Canberra to make way for larger backyards, under proposed planning changes.
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The ACT government has moved forward with a proposed draft variation to the territory plan, which would require all new residential development to have a minimum tree canopy coverage requirement.
Single residential blocks would need to have at least 15 per cent tree canopy coverage and high density developments would be required to have at least 20 per cent coverage.
The variation would also mean at least 35 per cent of a single residential block would need to be set aside for a planting area. Outdoor pools and patios would not be included as part of the planting area.
The proposed variation will be referred to the Legislative Assembly's standing committee on planning this week and the government has planned to introduce the changes next year.
Planning Minister Mick Gentleman said the proposed variation would address concerns around a lack of green spaces in new developments.
"We have listened to Canberrans and will ensure as our city becomes denser, it will retain its bush capital feel," he said.
"We are also responding to concerns that big houses lacking green space are heating our city.
"Developers and builders will need to include bigger backyards and green spaces for all new developments, ensuring our growing city remains sustainable while retaining its character."
The draft variation was released for consultation in late-2019. A report on the consultation said there were 82 submissions received, most supported the variation but there were a number of concerns raised.
These concerns included how the provisions would practically work, monitoring of compliance and how trees would be located and maintained on blocks.
In response, the planning directorate's report said that tree provision would be a condition of approval as part of the territory plan and non-compliance would result in penalties.
Environment Minister Rebecca Vassarotti said the changes would go towards the government's goal of 30 per cent tree canopy coverage in the capital by 2045.
"Planning is one way we can influence how our bush capital develops," she said.
"[The variation] will significantly strengthen the contribution that residential developments make to tree canopy and green infrastructure and reducing the impacts of climate change."
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Meanwhile, there was a spirited debate in estimates on Thursday afternoon as Mr Gentleman was grilled on the government's urban infill policy, which has planned for 70 per cent of all future development to be in already developing sites.
Opposition spokesman for housing Mark Parton said the government's policy would deny the next generation the opportunity to play backyard cricket.
Mr Parton asked the Planning Minister whether he played cricket in his backyard when he grew up. Mr Gentleman responded by saying he played in the street.
"I would suggest Minister Gentleman despite your rhetoric today that your land release program is going to deny a generation of children the right to play cricket in their own backyard and I would just ask you to reflect on that," Mr Parton said.
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