So what's the Real Issue here?
For over 50 years non‐urban land owners in North Arm Cove and neighbouring towns within Great Lakes have been paying land rates for land they cannot use because it is zoned non-urban. Years ago we were promised a piece of paradise and "what an investment for the future!". It is 20 years on and our investment is worth the same as when we bought it. In fact most have lost money paying land rates every year for over 20 years. Some land owners have lost their lives, waiting to build their dream house and have left their "piece of paradise" to their family.
What is a Paper Subdivision?
Paper Subdivisions denote land comprising of lots that have recognition only on paper and, in most cases, with no formed roads, drainage, reticulated water, sewer or electricity. Most paper subdivisions have existed for many years, some originating as long ago as the late 1800s or early 1900s. The land is likely to be largely undeveloped, often with little or no development potential under existing land use zonings. Lots typically range in size from 200m2 to 20,000m2 and are usually held in separate titles by multiple land owners.
Paper Subdivisions were done prior to local government legislation and planning controls. Most were done via registration of a survey plan with the Titles Office but had no formed roads, sewer, stormwater or power. They existed on paper only. There are more than you think in NSW.
Most land in paper subdivisions were bought as speculative investments with the hope that one day, they will be rezoned to allow development of dwellings. We believe that that day is now on the horizon!
Paper Subdivisions are outside Council jurisdiction, and, as such, will be determined by the State government, NOT Mid Coast Council.
The Minister for Planning has created a pathway for Paper Subdivisions, which we have set our sights on and are in the process of pursuing.
Paper Subdivisions were done prior to local government legislation and planning controls. Most were done via registration of a survey plan with the Titles Office but had no formed roads, sewer, stormwater or power. They existed on paper only. There are more than you think in NSW.
Most land in paper subdivisions were bought as speculative investments with the hope that one day, they will be rezoned to allow development of dwellings. We believe that that day is now on the horizon!
Paper Subdivisions are outside Council jurisdiction, and, as such, will be determined by the State government, NOT Mid Coast Council.
The Minister for Planning has created a pathway for Paper Subdivisions, which we have set our sights on and are in the process of pursuing.
How Does Land Typically get Developed?
Typically when land is purchased from a developer, the cost of providing water, sewer, power, stormwater etc is included in the price. In North Arm Cove's case, these costs need to be met by the land owners themselves. We have identified and assessed these costs, and will later explain how they can be paid for, without too much burden on the land owner. It also provides long suffering land owners a chance to profit from their long held investment.