Community and coastal conservation groups today congratulated the Government on accepting the Tasmanian Planning Commission’s (TPC) advice to reject the Draft State Coastal Policy (DSCP) and identify options to move forward as a matter of priority.

Download pdf at: http://www.saveralphsbay.org/pdf/ETmedia200511.pdf

Save Ralphs Bay Inc, Environment Tasmania, and the Environmental Defenders Office welcome the TPC findings that the DSCP was irreconcilable due to, among other issues, a lack of strategic direction, integration across all relevant management and planning regimes, consideration of climate change impacts, clear guidance for councils and developers, and the exclusion of the Precautionary Principle.

“We applaud the Tasmanian Planning Commission’s recommendation to develop a more comprehensive policy with legislative backing, and feel that this is a reflection of the community’s concerns and determination to support a strong coastal policy and planning for Tasmania.” said Dr. Thomas Moore, Environment Tasmania’s Coasts Coordinator, “Premier Giddings immediate direction to the Minister for Planning calling for a fresh way forward in what has become a seven year review of the currently active but ineffective and unenforceable 1996 State Coastal Policy (SCP) is encouraging but clearly requires new resources. The next State Budget must reflect this urgent priority.” he continued, “It is fundamental that Premier Giddings maintains a commitment to renewing the SCP and it’s urgent that she delivers within the current term of Government.” he concluded.

The TPC final report also highlighted the breadth and strength of support for a statewide ban on canal estate development, including a submission from the Hobart City Council. The Canal Estates (Prohibition) Bill 2011 is currently before Parliament and due to be debated in the coming weeks.