Gwyn Jolley

2018 candidate for City of Mitcham.
Heritage survey responses.

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)?
Yes, generally I believe that local councils have a more intimate, up to date and relevant information about local heritage issues. DPTI would also have an interest in larger heritage sites with statewide significance so should also be involved
In your opinion, has the current system of local heritage protection served your community well?
Not very well, local council decisions are often over-ridden by the SA state government. Further, cost shifting and tight fiscal climate means that local councils face increased pressure to seek commercial gain from natural or built environment sites
Should councils reject proposals to list local places of historic merit simply because an owner objects?
No, the wider community needs to have a say too, In most cases owners know of the heritage issues before purchase.
Should neighbours of local heritage listed buildings have a right of appeal on development applications that propose demolition?
Yes, I believe all interested community members and residents should be able to appeal such a decision.
Should buildings listed as Contributory Items in your council area receive better protection?
As stated above I think there will be increased pressure on heritage items in the future so it is important to have adequate safeguards in place such as council policies and approval mechanisms, community consultation and right of appeal to independent body
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?
DPTI should be involved for large statewide heritage significance but local communities are in a better position to identify local sites. Independent review would be a useful tool when dispute arises.
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, I would support closer collaboration
What are your personal suggestions for improving the way your council handles policy and planning?
Much more consultation particularly in the early stages of planning. Council need to lobby state government (perhaps through the LGA) to regain control over planning decisions.
Should councils actively encourage individuals to nominate places for consideration as local heritage?
Yes, local residents should have this opportunity and councils could put out a call, in history week for example