Authority scrapped

The news comes on the heels of local calls for the authority to be scrapped because of dissatisfaction with its methods of operation since its 2004 formation.

Ms Keneally said she had directed a restructure of the planning agencies that report to her, with $3 million in savings to be reinvested into the Planning Department.

“During these tough economic times we need to keep the economy of Sydney and NSW moving,” Ms Keneally, also the Redfern Waterloo Minister, said.

Last month community group REDwatch called for either an end to the RWA or a reworking of the body. “REDWatch has recently been approached by a number of local residents eager to see the end of the RWA,” spokesman Geoff Turnbull said.

Mr Turnbull, who is also on the RWA Ministerial Advisory, met with Ms Keneally last month to discuss the RWA’s future.

The Planning Department will take on all planning and land release functions of the Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority, but SHFA will retain its venue and place management functions.

Source: http://sydney-central.whereilive.com.au/news/story/authority-scrapped/