The NSW government has issued a "knee jerk" reaction to climate change and rising sea levels, says a Shoal Haven architect.
Jeffrey Clarke, owner and principal architect at Coastal Architecture, believes that regulations on coastal developments are “broad brush” and have more to do with protecting the government than the coastline.
"To me it looks like an attempt by the councils or the government to side-step litigation for any previous or future coastal developments," he said.
"We're all aware that there is climate change and stuff like that happening, but I think this is a total knee-jerk reaction."
In February, the NSW government released the Sea Level Rise Policy Statement for consultation with councils and other stakeholders and is now working with councils to take practical measures to guide planning for land use along the coast.
"The Draft NSW Coastal Planning Guideline encourages a risk-based approach to planning and development assessment in light of sea level rise impacts," Planning minister, Kristina Keneally said.
Councils are now advised against intensifying land-use in coastal areas where rising sea levels may be an issue. Wherever possible, they are encouraged to avoid new developments.
“For example, councils are encouraged to avoid changing land use from rural to urban zonings in areas where sea level rise or flooding could present risks to life, property or the environment,” Keneally said.
According to Clarke, south coast councils have issued residents with maps with an "unrealistic" line defining where water encroachment will impact on developments.
"It doesn't fully take in the geographical and geological makeup of the actual coast strip," he said.
It is estimated that sea levels along the NSW coastline will rise 40 cm by 2050 and 90 cm by 2100. It is also expected that 600,000 additional residents will be living along the NSW coast by 2036.
