Catherine Hutchesson

2018 candidate for City of Mitcham.
Heritage survey responses.

1. Do you agree that the identification and protection of local heritage places is best done by local councils rather than DPTI (Department of Planning, Transport and Infrastructure)?
   I believe that the people who live in the council areas and are aware of the historical significance of buildings should have a say when development approvals are lodged. Consultation is important. Council should have the right to Vito planning approvals that see heritage buildings demolished if their local communities feel they add value to their area.

2. In your opinion, has the current system of local heritage protection served your community well?
   Living in the Park Ward there are fewer significant buildings then alot of the other Wards in Mitcham. I have seen heritage properties maintained and very few demolished so I think that they probably have. In other areas however (Anzac highway for example) it's been very disappointing to see the bungalows demolished so for them I'm not sure it's served their community well.

3. Should councils reject proposals to list local places of historic merit simply because an owner objects?
   Each occasion would be different depending on the merit.

4. Should neighbours of local heritage listed buildings have a right of appeal on development applications that propose demolition?
   Their view should be taken into consideration

5. Should buildings listed as Contributory Items in your council area receive better protection?
   My area was mostly built in the 60s and 70s there are some great retro properties but I don't think they would be classed as contributory.

6. Do you agree that places proposed for listing by your council as Local Heritage or Contributory Items should be subject to review by DPTI? Or would reviews be more appropriately conducted by an independent source of expert advice?
   Independent

7. Would you like to see your council work more closely with the National Trust of SA in protecting heritage, for example, by signing up as one of the Trust's Civic Partners?
   Yes

8. What are your personal suggestions for improving the way your council handles policy and planning?
   Consultation with local residents. Quite often there may only be notification at council or in the messenger that know one reads. Direct consultation if there is to be demolition would be suitable.

9. Should councils actively encourage individuals to nominate places for consideration as local heritage?
   Yes