Minister slams housing ‘NIMBYs’
Both the state and federal housing ministers have slammed the Hobart City Council for refusing a major social housing development, and one says it’s a prime example of why planning decisions should be taken away from local government.
The plan for 38 new studio apartments at 210-218 Argyle St, to house women over 50, was refused on Wednesday, 5-4.
Marti Zucco, Louise Elliot, John kelly, Louise Bloomfield and Ben Lohberger were the elected members who voted against it.
The rejection came despite advice from the council’s own planning experts that the development was suitable and should be approved.
On Friday, state Housing Minister Felix Ellis described the decision as “pure NIMBYism” (not in my back yard).
He said it made the case for the government’s proposed planning reforms.
“Hobart City Council’s decision makes clear the need for the Tasmanian government’s independent, expert Development Assessment Panels, with legislation to be progressed this year,” Mr Ellis said.
“The new legislation will give the community and developers the confidence that they need in our planning system, so they can invest with certainty, and we can continue to meet the needs of our growing population.”
Federal Housing Minister Julie Collins said rejecting the application was “appalling”.
“I think we need to have a good conversation in Tasmania and in our communities about the need to get more homes out of the ground for Tasmanians that need them,” she said. “We don’t have enough homes.”