Media response - Aldinga development announcement

Published on 28 August 2024

Response to The Advertiser.

• I'm seeking comment on the proposed 800-home development at Aldinga. When it was announced in 2021, Onkaparinga Council said it would have preferred a Master Planned Township zoning, which would have limited heights to two storeys. It was instead given a Master Planned Neighbourhood zoning, allowing three storeys. At the time, Onkaparinga Council director of planning and regulatory services Renee Mitchell said: “We do remain concerned about this zone’s references to high-density development, three-storey and/or more building heights, and the allowable floor area for non-residential land uses in an outer suburban location such as Aldinga.” Can I confirm what the current zoning is, whether council’s views have changed, and its stance on the housing development?

Comments attributed to Acting CEO, Renee Mitchell

The City of Onkaparinga has always prioritised sustainable development that aligns with the community’s vision and character.

We recognise that given current restrictions in housing supply, a range of sustainable housing options being made available to the market is an outcome that benefits all potential purchasers.

The Aldinga site is perfectly placed next to high-quality road and future rail infrastructure, commercial shopping and government support services, and a mix of development outcomes here will provide benefit for existing and future residents.

Most importantly, the plan also includes a range of sustainability initiatives that directly reflect the council and community’s vision.

We took an ambitious step in 2019 by preparing an Aldinga Framework Plan to guide and influence significant state government projects in the area.

We also ensured the community’s views were included in a Renewal SA-led Structure Plan in 2020 and rezoning in 2021, with council advocating strongly for better sustainability, connectivity, and character preservation.

Finally, our 2021 advocacy vision called for a highly sustainable development, and today’s announcement validates that vision.

The fact these measures were included in the plan proves that high-quality sustainable development can be embedded as the minimum acceptable standard, rather than merely a nice-to-have. This is a significant achievement for both the council and the community.

ENDS