Instead of making a determination opposing the rezoning of Lizard Rock, the North Sydney Planning Panel has made a ‘majority decision’ to continue to liaise with the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) and seek “what changes might be required” in order to support the rezoning of this high fire risk bushfire bushland in Belrose.

The majority of Panel members agreed that the Planning Proposal demonstrates strategic merit. However, they did not agree that site-specific merit could be met in terms of bushfire hazard mitigation given the concerns raised by the RFS.

They therefore seek further consultation with the RFS as to how the bushfire risks can be resolved.

The Panel noted that the endorsement of the RFS had “unfortunately” yet been obtained.

As of 15 October 2024, the RFS maintained its opposition to the Planning Proposal proceeding.

However, in its correspondence the RFS stated that:

“While I understand that while this decision may disappoint many, the RFS remains committed to working with the Department of Planning, Housing & Infrastructure in terms of how our concerns in respect of the Planning Proposal may be addressed”.

In a letter dated 9 November the RFS stated that “Additional bushfire protection measures will need to be proposed to further mitigate the risk to an acceptable level”.

Read the full decision of the Strategic Planning Panel of the Sydney North Planning Panel below:

Read the Summary of Community Submissions and Responses below:

Read the Summary of Northern Beaches Council & Agency Submissions and Responses below: