Another delay for medium density housing code

Developers looking forward to new rules that will help them build dual occupancies, manor houses and terraces more quickly in the Bayside and Randwick areas will have to wait longer.

The government wants to provide a greater variety of housing. Picture: Supplied

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The Department of Planning has announced its medium density housing code, which was roundly criticised, will be deferred for 45 councils until October 31 due to a review prior to its implementation.

The code was due to be introduced for the 45 councils, including Bayside and Randwick, on July 1.

It allows people wishing to build dual occupancies, manor houses and terraces to gain approval in 20 days if they meet requirements.

Streets lined only with houses. Picture: Ron Chapple Studios

Under the code, these buildings may stand up to two storeys.

The code was introduced to 78 council areas in July last year.

Planning Minister Rob Stokes has asked for a review to identify impediments to its delivery.

Professor Roberta Ryan is undertaking the review and is expected to publish her findings by the end of the month.

She will consult stakeholders and assess council feedback.

Bayside and Randwick officials were among many across the state who protested that the code would change the nature of suburban streets.

Randwick officials said this could see homes built and subdivided to create blocks as small as 225 sqm — smaller than Randwick’s minimum lot size of 400 sqm.

The concerns prompted Mr Stokes to delay introducing the code, initially set for July 1, 2018.

The government claims the code is working well in those areas where it has been implemented.