Byron Council’s Draft Unauthorised Dwelling Policy received almost unanimous support from councillors when it was abruptly brought into existence around 18 months ago.

A contentious draft Unauthorised Dwelling Policy, put on exhibition last year by Council, has re-emerged for this Thursday’s meeting. While staff have recommended that the policy become an 'internal' document others are calling for it to be 'abandoned'.

With Council extending public submissions  by one week for landowners to respond to the draft Unauthorised Dwelling Policy, resident groups appear to be divided on the issue.

With Council’s draft Unauthorised Dwelling Policy causing alarm and stress within the hinterland community, the Main Arm Residents Association (MARRA) have authored a guide to help residents lodge a submission. But remember this policy also applies to urban areas.

Further to Council’s aggressive plans to pursue unauthorised development in the Shire’s hinterland, The Echo spoke to Professor John Sheehan, a leading expert on property rights, who explained the issues that both Council and landowners face with regards to development and compliance.

Residents in Main Arm are shocked after Byron Shire Council staff sent out letters accusing property owners of having unauthorised development on their land while there is both a moratorium in place and an unauthorised dwelling policy currently on public exhibition.