Retail Planning Changes Recognises Changing Practices

The proposed changes to definitions related to zoning for retail uses in NSW are a good reflection on the massive changes happening in the retail world, says the Urban Taskforce.

“The change of a few definitions in the Standard Instrument LEP may not seem like a significant change but for the retail industry in NSW the changes will help the retail industry in terms of location,” says Urban Taskforce CEO Chris Johnson.

“With the rise of on-line shopping and more flexible combination of which goods are sold has come new retail outlets that were overly restricted by the NSW zoning system. The government’s proposed changes go a long way to responding to concerns from the industry.”

“The new definition for Bulky Goods will free up many businesses to be able to find more appropriate locations that are customer friendly. The new definition for Local Distribution Premises acknowledges the need for customers to collect goods after on-line purchases.”

“The new definition for Neighbourhood Supermarkets recognises the trend to more urban living where communities prefer to walk to a smaller neighbourhood supermarket rather than drive to a larger supermarket. This change responds to the big swing in Sydney to urban lifestyles in apartments.”

“The Urban Taskforce is supportive of the improvements to definitions for the Standard Instrument LEP. We are now more in line with zoning approaches in other states and are now catching up with the rapid changes being made in the retail sector.”