MidCoast Council will request the NSW Government investigate alleged offences on land owned by companies with common directors Phillip Dong Fang Lee and Xiaobei Shi at Tea Gardens.
The issue was raised in a late report at council’s February 14 meeting that was closed to the public as council considered it may have impacted on the outcome of legal proceedings.
Council made several decisions in relation to this matter following compliance investigations at 112 Viney Creek Road, Tea Gardens.
Council moved to encourage and support the State Government to pursue the highest statutory penalties in the Land and Environment Court.
Council stated this would be to encourage Mr Lee and Mr Shi to comply in the future and to show that MidCoast Council and NSW Government will enforce land use planning and environment legislation.
Council’s planning and natural systems director Lisa Schiff plans to meet with the Department of Environment and Planning cluster secretary to discuss the issue.
Council also resolved it will continue to work with the Department of Premier and Cabinet and agencies relating to the matter.
Council recognised the work and cooperation between all agencies that have addressed the alleged unauthorised development.
The resolution was moved by deputy mayor Cr Katheryn Smith and seconded by Cr Claire Pontin.
Cr Peter Epov was the only councillor to vote against the motion.
