Donna-Marie Currey

2022 candidate for City of Playford.
Heritage survey responses.

Do you think that Councils and community members need to have a greater voice in planning and development decisions affecting their local area?
Most definitely. We live, work, volunteer in the area. Changes and forward planning should always be in consultation or controlled by those most effected.
What role should Councils play in protecting local heritage places from demolition or inappropriate development?
Council should have final say on any demolition or inappropriate development - anything which impacts the community should be in consultation with Council and the final veto for demolition should be held by council.
How would you seek to improve protections for heritage places in your area?
often heritage listed properties are left in ruin, owners allowing properties to fall into disrepair, vacant, attracting vandalism etc ... owners should have time frames in place to address maintenance issues
We rarely see new places added to local heritage listings. Why do you think this is?
the heritage listed properties are a physical, tangible connection to our history. A reminder of where we have been and how we have developed. The beauty and craftsmanship of bygone era should be appreciated and available to see.
Construction of new housing typically uses 30% labour and 70% materials. Renovation of existing housing stock typically uses 70% labour and 30% materials. What policy changes would you like to see made to encourage people to renovate, rather than demolish and build anew?
minimum enforceable contract requirements - time frames, insurance protecting home owner for duration of construction, central body holds funds until inspection released in stages to protect the home owner. Council approval times need to be improved.
How should the community be informed and involved in decisions about new developments?
major developments should require signage on site clearly showing intended development visuals, information available on council website and date listed for discussion prior to approval
Do you think there is adequate tree canopy across your local government area?
no. Often the trees are seed/pod bearing which creates a nuisance/risk for community. We need to examine the types of trees, what works for the area and climate
How would you like to see significant and regulated trees in your area protected from removal?
Rather than a blanket rule for all, each should be considered independently - risk to property or community assessment.
What involvement should Councils have in decisions about protecting or removing significant and regulated trees?
Council should have final decision, in consultation with community.
What actions would you advocate to slow or mitigate the impacts of climate change in your local government area?
increase planting of native plants and ground cover, consultation with local Indigenous community to managed/ soil erosion and protect against wildfires. New developments are limiting green space in each property. We are placing profit before people and comfort. ALL new builds approvals need full solar with battery storage.
What issues are there with traffic and parking in your area?
the new development areas have minimal to no parking. Streets are too narrow. Driveways only fit one car. We need wider street, avenues, shade tree canopies. These streets are not safe - children are at risk crossing their own street as cannot be seen on footpath or between cars when drivers are already under pressure to navigate the confined space between parked cars.
How could transport options be improved in your area?
A free local, loop bus moving between shopping centres and key access points would enable many to use facilities on a more regular basis.
What would your top three priorities be for improving planning policy and outcomes in your local government area?
greater emphasis on liveability of developments
Green space within easy walking distance of all residence
Community gardens in all districts