Background and Policy Objectives
4.The Order includes a number of measures relating to the Department’s development control, enforcement, and development plan preparation functions, including commitments made in the Department’s Modernising Planning Processes Implementation Plan published in February 2003. It also fulfils a long-standing commitment to end the Crown’s immunity from the planning system.
5.The primary objectives are to better manage and improve existing planning processes, particularly in relation to planning applications and development plans; contribute to the improved design and accessibility of the built environment; enhance protection of the built and natural environment, including conservation areas; introduce stronger controls over mineral development; strengthen enforcement powers by introducing temporary stop notices and increased fines for unauthorised advertisements; enhance community involvement in the planning system by providing more flexible, efficient and less adversarial procedures for considering objections to development plans and promote the achievement of sustainable development.