Rural residential park zoning proposed

A new zoning for low-cost rental housing is being proposed by independent councillor, David Warth.

Any new zoning proposal would need to be led at the state government level, and if adopted, would sit inside council’s local environment plans (LEP).

Cr Warth told The Echo, ‘I have discussed this with other councillors and staff, and I will be speaking about it at the National General Assembly of Local Government Canberra in June’.

‘Affordable, social and transitional housing is desperately needed in our Shire. It has proven to be extremely difficult to provide owing to the very high cost of land and real estate here’.

‘Our Mayor, Sarah Ndiaye, is acutely aware of this, and with other councillors is looking at all options.

Outside of the box

‘In response to the housing crisis, I feel there is a need to think well outside of the box.

‘I am proposing a new land zoning: Rural Residential Park (RRP).

‘This would be to rezone flood-free rural land outside of main centres of population to be turned into low-cost rental housing pegged to a viable percentage of weekly income.

‘Accommodation would be provided with easily transported, highly cost-effective flat-packed modular homes that can be configured from two, up to six, bedrooms.

‘These are very attractive, extremely durable and functional fully self-contained homes. They are available now through a local manufacturer, and can be erected in a matter of days.

‘I would very happily live in one of these homes myself. The park would be landscaped and planted with local native trees. It would have its own hall for activities and meetings, a community garden and quiet places to just sit and relax.

‘Regular transport to towns would be arranged.

‘The houses would be rental only with no holiday letting or high season rent increases. The park would be primarily for residents who are working in the area and single mums with kids’, he added.