Shadow Parliamentary Secretary for Planning, Rob Stokes MP, today welcomed Pittwater Council ‘s vision for secondary dwellings.

“Secondary houses are one way to address the housing crisis on the Northern Beaches and I support any ideas that make homes more affordable for residents on the Northern Beaches”, Mr Stokes said.

“Granny flats covering no more than 20 percent of the gross floor area of the main house is a way of providing more housing without altering the unique character of our area.

 “This provides the chance for families to earn extra income while providing affordable living to other families and singles.

“Providing secondary dwellings on existing blocks also reduces the pressure to approve more seniors living developments which are very unpopular with the local community.

“I encourage the Department of Planning to approve this proposal by Pittwater Council to address the need for affordable housing in our local community as quickly as possible”, Rob Stokes concluded.