Wollondilly

HillPDA was engaged by Wollondilly Shire Council to undertake a Visitor Economy Study for the Wollondilly LGA. The purpose of the study was to identify and explore opportunities to enhance the Wollondilly visitor economy through amendments to the Wollondilly Local Environmental Plan 2011 (LEP). The study was undertaken to support the achievement of Planning Priority 9 in the Local Strategic Planning Statement, which seeks to develop the visitor economy experience and economy by increasing access to natural areas and rural landscapes in Wollondilly.

Key elements of the study included:

• Reviewing available information including current policy positions and broader plans and strategies
• Engaging with various internal and external stakeholders
• Preparing case studies and undertaking targeted phone calls to specific councils to understand approaches they have taken to support their visitor economy
• Reviewing the relevant plans and policies
• Identifying mechanisms that could be considered for inclusion in the LEP and other relevant actions
• Recommending and providing direction on the need and focus of any future review of the DCP in relation to the visitor economy.

Project outcome:

The study involved undertaking a review of various known tourism related council areas in NSW. Engagement with these councils identified difficulties that exist in operating tourism businesses in rural and environmental zones, which became the focus for the case studies. Based on the findings from the stakeholder conversations and case studies analysis, it was identified that there was a clear need to explore the barriers within the current planning framework. The study outlined potential opportunities for intervention and their limitations, and provided a summary of proposed LEP amendments.

Services:

• Policy review
• Research
• Engagement
• Case study analysis
• Strategy development
• LEP and DCP recommendations

Client: Wollondilly Shire Council
Project date: 2021

For more information, contact Elle Clouston, Principal