Minister Steve Edgington affirms CLP’s position that Holtze-Kowandi should stay with Litchfield Council
The change of government has been a win for an outer Darwin municipality after it was previously told by Labor it was at risk of losing out on a large development opportunity to a neighbouring council.
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Local Government Minister Steve Edgington has affirmed the new CLP government’s long-held position that future mega residential estates planned for Holtze should remain within Litchfield Council’s municipal boundaries and not be handed over to Palmerston.
The issue has been bubbling away from almost the moment the former Labor government, under Michael Gunner, revealed in early 2021 the land at Holtze (and Kowandi) would be released for massive urban development.
Litchfield councillors sounded the alarm within weeks after they said they had been told by former chief minister Mr Gunner and his then planning minister Eva Lawler they didn’t believe Litchfield had the capacity to service such a large residential precinct.
About 5000 new dwellings could be erected in Holtze-Kowandi, or up to 11,000 if Greater Holtze (including Howard Springs North and Holtze North) are fully developed.
The quantity of future landowners would represent a significant rates bounty for whichever council is tasked with administering the suburbs.
According to data from the 2021 census, Litchfield contained 8886 dwellings and Palmerston 14,538.
In a statement on Tuesday, Mr Edgington was rock solid with where the government’s allegiances lay.
“The CLP Government previously voiced the belief that Holtze should remain in Litchfield Council,” he said.
“As Holtze is developed over the coming years, we will continue to monitor and listen to all stakeholders to determine what local government arrangements are best for the residents of Holtze, local businesses and surrounding communities.”
Last May, the former Labor government announced Holtze Land Company (HLC), a joint venture between AKJ Development and HB Constructions, had won the tender to develop the first tranche of 550 lots, with the first release expected to occur later this year.
Previously, Litchfield Mayor Doug Barden said his council shouldn’t be underestimated.
“Council have long been excited at the prospect of land in Holtze and Kowandi being the next residential land release,” he said.
“Council have been investing in preparations to service these areas for over four years.
“Council is committed and well placed to service further urban developments within the municipality and looks forward to welcoming new residents to Holtze.”
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Originally published as Minister Steve Edgington affirms CLP’s position that Holtze-Kowandi should stay with Litchfield Council
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