Kenzie Van Den Nieuwelaar

2018 candidate for City of Charles Sturt.
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)?
   Yes. Coucil’s are in a better position to know and evaluate heritage places. Ward Coincillor’s can play a pivotal role in seeking community feedback and advocating for protection of heritage places.

2. In your opinion, has the current system of local heritage protection served your community well?
   No. We recently had a 35.75m Telstra Tower erected in the the heart of a council-zoned Historical Comservation Area at Henley Beach. Residents are (rightfully) subject to strict building and renovation conditions but despite significant opposition from local residents and the greater community Council approved the tower. The height is equivalent of a 10 story building, and now totally dominates the historical area, which are single-story houses. It also surpasses the iconic Norfolk Pine trees. It would appear there is one rule for residents and one for big business.

3. Should councils reject proposals to list local places of historic merit simply because an owner objects?
   No. History can never be replaced. I believe that Councils need to work cooperatively with owners, who should be encouraged to protect the historic integrity of properties. I believe we need procedures and incentives to encourage historic preservation.

4. Should neighbours of local heritage listed buildings have a right of appeal on development applications that propose demolition?
   Yes, if the outcome of the proposal will have a detrimental affect to fhe history and amenity of the area.

5. Should buildings listed as Contributory Items in your council area receive better protection?
   Yes. They should be protected. Council should also provide incentives to owners (ie reductions in rates), as the reality is older, historical buildings are often expensive to maintain or restore.

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?
   I don’t believe the current system favours maintaining local heritage. I believe a well-balanced panel consisting of experts would be better equipped to assess contributory items, and provide consistency. I also believe more weight should be given to community opinion and expectations.

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?
   Absolutely.

8. What are your personal suggestions for improving the way your council handles policy and planning?
   Engage INDEPENDENT experts (ie Historical architects) when assessing plans or developing areas. LISTEN to the community. Council should take a stronger stance and not cave in to pressure from developers and big business.

9. Should councils actively encourage individuals to nominate places for consideration as local heritage?
   Yes, by working with individuals and provide both financial and professional assistance. The rentention of history and historical landmarks will have a flow-on effect for the whole community to enjoy the amenity and character of an area.