The council is joining others across NSW in calling for a parliamentary inquiry into Planning Minister Frank Sartor’s legislation.

Among other things, the changes will reduce the number of planning applications on which neighbours must be consulted.

It will also drastically reduce the number of developments on which elected councillors or their planning staff make decisions.

Loss of development contributions for subdivisions will force councils to seek funds elsewhere, but mostly from their ratepayers.

Mayor Stuart Baker said the changes would have serious implications for the Albury community.

“The reforms are taking control away from local communities, which is why we’re calling for a freeze on the implementation of the changes as well as a parliamentary inquiry,” Cr Baker said.

“These laws will not only add more layers of red tape and cost ratepayers millions of dollars to implement, but they will also impact on councils’ ability to provide crucial services.

“Rates and costs such as parking may need to increase so communities can still have essential services such as libraries and playgrounds.

“These reforms will mean that private companies will have the power to approve residential development applications.

“Albury Council will do everything in its power to fight these changes.

“We must ensure that the first time Albury residents know that their neighbour is undertaking a major renovation is not when the bulldozer arrives next door.

“The people of Albury deserve the right to have a say over local developments and these laws are stripping away those rights.

Anyone who would like to register their concern is urged to go to the campaign website, keepitlocal.org.au and email comments to member for Albury Greg Aplin.