DA assessment times

We are continuing to address a small backlog in the assessment of development applications due to an increase in general development across the shire over the last few years and resource limitations with planning and development assessment staff. Our DA assessment planners and support staff are working hard to improve assessment timeframes, from lodgement through assessment and determination.

To help our assessment team focus on the work of considering your development application, there are some things you can do to help reduce delays.

• Email enquiries regarding your specific development application to council@begavalley.nsw.gov.au and mark it for the attention of the relevant assessment planner.
• Limit contact with the assessment planner to a single representative for the applicant only.
• Note that the assessment planner will contact community members who make a submission directly for any clarification if required. Multiple contacts about submissions are not necessary.
• Use email or leave a voice mail when contacting the assessment planner. We will acknowledge your enquiry within five working days.
• Applicants – Use the planning portal to find information relating to development applications.
• General public – Use Council’s DA Enquiry to find information relating to the status of development applications.

Council is committed to maintaining open communication with applicants, developers and the community.