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FINDINGS RELEASED FROM UPPER HOUSE INQUIRY

The findings of a parliamentary inquiry into Newcastle’s planning processes have been released.

The committee made nine recommendations in its report, including restricting building heights in the East End to a maximum of 27-metres and reinstating the city’s rail services immediately.

It’s also recommending Newcastle Council be recognised as the principle planning authority for the city and be given authority over all land owned and managed by the Hunter Development Corporation.

The inquiry found HDC’s GM, Bob Hawes, had a significant and ongoing conflict of interest by owning property at Wickham and having a managerial role in the state government’s decision to truncate the heavy rail line – a decision from which the inquiry said he could financially benefit.

It added that HDC failed to manage this conflict of interest, and in doing so, has damaged public confidence in the organisation.

Meanwhile the committee says it’s deeply concerned by a leaked cabinet document, which details a preferred light rail route along the existing rail corridor.

It has questioned why the government ignored the advice of the Transport Minister and chose a transport option that will reportedly cost around $100-million more.

We’ll bring you more details on NBN News at 6.

Save Our Rail members protesting in Sydney today
Save Our Rail members protesting in Sydney
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