Public Exhibition: Biodiversity and Foreshore Planning Proposal & DCP Amendment

We're asking our community to review proposed changes to the Georges River Local Environmental Plan (LEP) and Development Control Plan (DCP).

These changes relate to:

• Biodiversity protection
• Foreshore scenic character areas
• Lot size, floor space and landscaped area requirements in selected parts of the LGA

These proposed changes follow studies completed by Council, directions from the NSW Government, and a Gateway Determination that requires further consultation with the community.

On this page you will find:

✅ Information on the Georges River Local Environmental Plan and Development Control Plan
✅ Highlights of the proposed changes
✅ Access to FAQs, fact sheets and online maps
✅ Access to the full draft Georges River Local Environmental Plan and Development Control Plan

Update: April 2026

Thank you to everyone who provided feedback during the consultation period. Our team is now reviewing all submissions, and we will update this page with next steps shortly.

How did we get here?

In 2021, Council completed the Georges River Biodiversity Study and Foreshore Scenic Character Study. These studies identified important natural habitats, foreshore character areas, and locations that need stronger environmental protection. Since then, Council has been working on the next steps.

What changes are being proposed?

New planning controls have been prepared to better protect and enhance the values of local biodiversity and the scenic qualities of the Georges River.

Local Environmental Plan (LEP)

The Georges River Local Environment Plan (LEP) 2021 came into effect on 8 October 2021.

A Local Environment Plan (LEP) is a legal document which controls land use and development in a local government area. A LEP contains information such as land use zones, building heights, heritage items and local conditions such as landscaping.

Development Control Plan (DCP)

A Development Control Plan (DCP) provides detailed guidelines for the design and assessment of proposed developments. The Georges River DCP 2021 supports the planning controls in the Local Environmental Plan.

We encourage you to read these plans in full be accessing them from the documents library on this page.

You can also read our answers to frequently asked questions on this page.

To find out if your property is affected by the proposed changes:

• Visit the interactive map. For instructions on how to use the online interactive map, please read search your property using the online map below.
• Read through the Fact Sheets in the Document Library
• Book an online meeting with a planner

Why are lot sizes proposed to increase in some areas?

Some areas in Connells Point, Lugarno and Oatley are proposed to have increased minimum lot size requirements because these areas have:

• High biodiversity and mature tree canopy
• Steep topography and high scenic value
• Land directly visible from the Georges River
• Unique local character

In these locations, larger lots help preserve biodiversity and scenic character, and ensure new development is compatible with the natural environment of the area.

You can find out more about the impacts of having larger lot size controls in Fact Sheet 6.

Why is DPHI requiring consultation on lot sizes?

One of the Gateway Determination conditions requires Council to reconsider the proposal to retain larger lot size control around train stations, in particular Oatley Station.

This is due to the need for more housing in accessible and well-serviced areas in light of the Low and Mid-Rise Housing (LMR) reform (also known as the LMR Policy), introduced by the NSW Government in 2024.

Through the LMR Policy, additional housing supply is unlocked in residential areas located within 800 metres walking distance from nominated town centres and nominated train/light rail stations. These areas are known as LMR Housing Areas.

Oatley Station is one of these nominated stations. This means residential land surrounding Oatley Station is a LMR Housing Area and State Government controls will apply and override Council's planning controls.

From the previous consultation, we have heard the community’s strong preference for the larger lot sizes to remain unchanged.

We are working with DPHI on the lot sizes around Oatley Station to ensure there is a balance between providing new housing and protecting the natural environment.

We want to hear from you on whether the larger lot sizes should be retained, or reduced to provide more housing.

What is happening now?

The Biodiversity and Foreshore Planning Proposal & DCP Amendments was on public exhibition from 23 February 2026 until 30 March 2026.

During this time:

• The Planning Proposal and all supporting documents were displayed on this page under the Document Library section
• Anyone in the community can read the full information
• You could provide feedback or lodge a submission about the proposal
• You could book time to speak with Council staff

Search your property using the online map

We have prepared on online map so you can check how your property may be affected. Maps work best on computers but are accessible on mobile devices.

Step one: Visit the interactive map

Access the map directly by taking this link: interactive map.

Step two: Searching your property

Option A - Search by Address: Look for the "Address Search" box (usually at the bottom of the screen). Type your full address (include street number, street name, and suburb). Click the search button or press Enter. The map will zoom to your property.

Option B - Navigate Manually: Use the zoom controls (+/-) to zoom in and out. Click and drag the map to move around to look for your street and property.

Step three: Understanding layers

Look for the layers menu on the left side of your screen. Check or uncheck layers to activate them on the map. You can select different layers menu to see various scenarios.

Where applicable, use the ‘+’ to expand layers and view specific zoning and lot size information.

Below is an explanation on the layers:

How can I have my say?

Community members were invited to provide feedback or comments on the Planning Proposal by completing the online feedback form or returning a hard‑copy submission.

Where do I send my hard copy or printed feedback?

Feedback has now closed, but if you would like to enquire about this project, please quote SF26/679 Biodiversity and Foreshore Planning Proposal & DCP Amendment at the beginning of your submission and return:

• In person to Georges River Council Civic Centre or Libraries
• Via email: mail@georgesriver.nsw.gov.au
• Via post: PO Box 205, Hurstville BC NSW 1481

Do you need assistance reading and accessing this page?

For a free interpreter call us via the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS) on 131 450

If you have a hearing or speech impairment, please contact the National Relay Service:

• Voice Relay number: 1300 555 727
• TTY number: 133 677