Latest news with #HDA
The Advertiser
19-05-2025
- Business
- The Advertiser
More than 20 Hunter residential developments apply for streamlined status
More than 20 large residential developments in the Hunter have been put forward to the government's new Housing Delivery Authority (HDA), in an effort to boost local housing supply by streamlining the planning process. In less than six months, 22 Hunter projects have been submitted to the HDA. Of those, 12 have been assessed and four have been declared a State Significant Development which if approved would create more than 400 dwellings in total. A 12-storey, 140-apartment complex has been proposed for the old Channel 10 building on Darby Street, while the Ibis Hotel at 700 Hunter Street could be demolished to make way for 165 units. The plans for a medium-density 56-unit building in the heart of Nelson Bay and a 50-apartment building on the corner of Maitland Road and May Street in Islington have also been declared state significant. NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure secretary Kiersten Fishburn said the HDA take up by Hunter developers had "been quite extraordinary". "Historical data shows there are typically 80 to 100 developments of this nature submitted each year across the state, so to already have 22 in the Hunter alone is not an insignificant amount," Ms Fishburn said. The HDA assessed developments against specific criteria including being well located and free of constraints, while applications with an affordable housing aspect will be "looked upon favourably". Once declared state significant, projects must begin the planning process within nine months. Once approved, construction must start within two years. Ms Fishburn, who also sits on the HDA panel, insisted the process was not a "tick and flick" and several Hunter applications had already been knocked back. The HDA is expected to work hand in glove with the Transport Oriented Development (TOD) program, which allows for six- to eight-storey apartment buildings within 400 metres of selected train stations. Developers are yet to show any interest in the nine Newcastle and Lake Macquarie TODs, however Ms Fishburn is not concerned. Sydney TODs had recently seen a "rapid response" from developers and she "anticipated much the same in the Hunter". "It only came into place nine months ago, so it takes a while for any rezoning or planning change to take effect," she said. "Developers need to find the land, purchase blocks and get a development application together, which all takes time." The only TOD to show progress in the Hunter is Cockle Creek, where a plan led by the state government would deliver 1200 medium-density homes on the 12-hectare site next to Costco if approved. Ms Fishburn hoped the project, which is being developed by the government's Hunter and Central Coast Development Corporation, would be a shining example of what could be achieved within the region's TODs. "The beauty is when we've got government land, it gives us the opportunity for a best-practice development," she said. More than 20 large residential developments in the Hunter have been put forward to the government's new Housing Delivery Authority (HDA), in an effort to boost local housing supply by streamlining the planning process. In less than six months, 22 Hunter projects have been submitted to the HDA. Of those, 12 have been assessed and four have been declared a State Significant Development which if approved would create more than 400 dwellings in total. A 12-storey, 140-apartment complex has been proposed for the old Channel 10 building on Darby Street, while the Ibis Hotel at 700 Hunter Street could be demolished to make way for 165 units. The plans for a medium-density 56-unit building in the heart of Nelson Bay and a 50-apartment building on the corner of Maitland Road and May Street in Islington have also been declared state significant. NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure secretary Kiersten Fishburn said the HDA take up by Hunter developers had "been quite extraordinary". "Historical data shows there are typically 80 to 100 developments of this nature submitted each year across the state, so to already have 22 in the Hunter alone is not an insignificant amount," Ms Fishburn said. The HDA assessed developments against specific criteria including being well located and free of constraints, while applications with an affordable housing aspect will be "looked upon favourably". Once declared state significant, projects must begin the planning process within nine months. Once approved, construction must start within two years. Ms Fishburn, who also sits on the HDA panel, insisted the process was not a "tick and flick" and several Hunter applications had already been knocked back. The HDA is expected to work hand in glove with the Transport Oriented Development (TOD) program, which allows for six- to eight-storey apartment buildings within 400 metres of selected train stations. Developers are yet to show any interest in the nine Newcastle and Lake Macquarie TODs, however Ms Fishburn is not concerned. Sydney TODs had recently seen a "rapid response" from developers and she "anticipated much the same in the Hunter". "It only came into place nine months ago, so it takes a while for any rezoning or planning change to take effect," she said. "Developers need to find the land, purchase blocks and get a development application together, which all takes time." The only TOD to show progress in the Hunter is Cockle Creek, where a plan led by the state government would deliver 1200 medium-density homes on the 12-hectare site next to Costco if approved. Ms Fishburn hoped the project, which is being developed by the government's Hunter and Central Coast Development Corporation, would be a shining example of what could be achieved within the region's TODs. "The beauty is when we've got government land, it gives us the opportunity for a best-practice development," she said. More than 20 large residential developments in the Hunter have been put forward to the government's new Housing Delivery Authority (HDA), in an effort to boost local housing supply by streamlining the planning process. In less than six months, 22 Hunter projects have been submitted to the HDA. Of those, 12 have been assessed and four have been declared a State Significant Development which if approved would create more than 400 dwellings in total. A 12-storey, 140-apartment complex has been proposed for the old Channel 10 building on Darby Street, while the Ibis Hotel at 700 Hunter Street could be demolished to make way for 165 units. The plans for a medium-density 56-unit building in the heart of Nelson Bay and a 50-apartment building on the corner of Maitland Road and May Street in Islington have also been declared state significant. NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure secretary Kiersten Fishburn said the HDA take up by Hunter developers had "been quite extraordinary". "Historical data shows there are typically 80 to 100 developments of this nature submitted each year across the state, so to already have 22 in the Hunter alone is not an insignificant amount," Ms Fishburn said. The HDA assessed developments against specific criteria including being well located and free of constraints, while applications with an affordable housing aspect will be "looked upon favourably". Once declared state significant, projects must begin the planning process within nine months. Once approved, construction must start within two years. Ms Fishburn, who also sits on the HDA panel, insisted the process was not a "tick and flick" and several Hunter applications had already been knocked back. The HDA is expected to work hand in glove with the Transport Oriented Development (TOD) program, which allows for six- to eight-storey apartment buildings within 400 metres of selected train stations. Developers are yet to show any interest in the nine Newcastle and Lake Macquarie TODs, however Ms Fishburn is not concerned. Sydney TODs had recently seen a "rapid response" from developers and she "anticipated much the same in the Hunter". "It only came into place nine months ago, so it takes a while for any rezoning or planning change to take effect," she said. "Developers need to find the land, purchase blocks and get a development application together, which all takes time." The only TOD to show progress in the Hunter is Cockle Creek, where a plan led by the state government would deliver 1200 medium-density homes on the 12-hectare site next to Costco if approved. Ms Fishburn hoped the project, which is being developed by the government's Hunter and Central Coast Development Corporation, would be a shining example of what could be achieved within the region's TODs. "The beauty is when we've got government land, it gives us the opportunity for a best-practice development," she said. More than 20 large residential developments in the Hunter have been put forward to the government's new Housing Delivery Authority (HDA), in an effort to boost local housing supply by streamlining the planning process. In less than six months, 22 Hunter projects have been submitted to the HDA. Of those, 12 have been assessed and four have been declared a State Significant Development which if approved would create more than 400 dwellings in total. A 12-storey, 140-apartment complex has been proposed for the old Channel 10 building on Darby Street, while the Ibis Hotel at 700 Hunter Street could be demolished to make way for 165 units. The plans for a medium-density 56-unit building in the heart of Nelson Bay and a 50-apartment building on the corner of Maitland Road and May Street in Islington have also been declared state significant. NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure secretary Kiersten Fishburn said the HDA take up by Hunter developers had "been quite extraordinary". "Historical data shows there are typically 80 to 100 developments of this nature submitted each year across the state, so to already have 22 in the Hunter alone is not an insignificant amount," Ms Fishburn said. The HDA assessed developments against specific criteria including being well located and free of constraints, while applications with an affordable housing aspect will be "looked upon favourably". Once declared state significant, projects must begin the planning process within nine months. Once approved, construction must start within two years. Ms Fishburn, who also sits on the HDA panel, insisted the process was not a "tick and flick" and several Hunter applications had already been knocked back. The HDA is expected to work hand in glove with the Transport Oriented Development (TOD) program, which allows for six- to eight-storey apartment buildings within 400 metres of selected train stations. Developers are yet to show any interest in the nine Newcastle and Lake Macquarie TODs, however Ms Fishburn is not concerned. Sydney TODs had recently seen a "rapid response" from developers and she "anticipated much the same in the Hunter". "It only came into place nine months ago, so it takes a while for any rezoning or planning change to take effect," she said. "Developers need to find the land, purchase blocks and get a development application together, which all takes time." The only TOD to show progress in the Hunter is Cockle Creek, where a plan led by the state government would deliver 1200 medium-density homes on the 12-hectare site next to Costco if approved. Ms Fishburn hoped the project, which is being developed by the government's Hunter and Central Coast Development Corporation, would be a shining example of what could be achieved within the region's TODs. "The beauty is when we've got government land, it gives us the opportunity for a best-practice development," she said.
Business Recorder
19-05-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
HCSTSI President welcomes development decisions of HDA
HYDERABAD: President Hyderabad Chamber of Small Traders & Small Industry (HCSTSI), Muhammad Saleem Memon, has welcomed the major development decisions taken during the recent 120th Governing Body meeting of the Hyderabad Development Authority (HDA), commending the leadership of Sindh Minister for Local Government, Saeed Ghani, HCSTSI President appreciated the swift approvals of development projects and financial allocations for Gulistan-e-Sarmast and other residential schemes, calling them a reflection of the Sindh Government's serious commitment to improving the urban infrastructure of Hyderabad. In a formal letter addressed to the Minister, the Chamber President Saleem Memon acknowledged the positive steps taken so far but emphasized the need for further practical and sustainable measures to ensure long-term benefits of these decisions. He strongly recommended that at least 70% of the revenue generated from Gulistan-e-Sarmast and other ongoing HDA schemes must be reinvested directly into their respective areas to promote self-sufficiency and continuous development. He highlighted the urgent necessity for establishing a dedicated grid station for Gulistan-e-Sarmast, in line with NEPRA policies, to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply. He also called for the immediate completion of the long-pending 36-inch water supply line, which has been delayed since 2009. Emphasis was laid on expediting internal road construction, drainage systems, and provision of water and electricity lines particularly in neglected sectors such as Kohsar Extension that have been deprived of basic amenities for decades. HCSTSI President further urged the launch of new schemes under the Annual Development Program (ADP) for water filtration and sewerage treatment plants in severely underserved areas, including Gulistan-e-Sarmast, Kohsar Zone, Bypass, and New Hyderabad City. He stressed need for complete revision of existing zoning strategies, proposing that each designated residential or commercial zone must be equipped with all basic utilities within a defined timeframe to prevent land misuse and speculation. He asserted this, would encourage legal occupancy and promote healthy commercial activity. Chamber President called on HDA to prioritize the completion of infrastructure work in pending schemes and to organize well-planned plot auctions thereafter. This would not only enhance the Authority's revenue but also help regain the lost market value of land. Expressing concern over the diminishing public trust in HDA due to years of neglect and unfulfilled commitments, he urged the Authority to take immediate and visible actions to restore public confidence through reliable service delivery. He also suggested outsourcing key development works to ensure quality and timely execution. Most significantly, HCSTSI President made a strong case for the inclusion of Hyderabad's business community especially representation from HCSTSI in the Governing Body meetings of HDA. He emphasized that direct participation would allow the ground realities, public grievances, and trade-related concerns to be effectively presented at the policy level, leading to more practical and people-centric urban planning. Concluding his remarks, he expressed hope that under the leadership of Saeed Ghani, the Local Government Department will continue to play a pivotal role in making Hyderabad's development more transparent, effective, and citizen-focused. He added that if the Chamber's recommendations are adopted in the next Governing Body meeting, Hyderabad will progress rapidly towards becoming a well-planned and modern city. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Express Tribune
11-05-2025
- Business
- Express Tribune
HDA governing body meets after over five years
After a gap of five years and four months, the 120th meeting of the Hyderabad Development Authority (HDA) Governing Body was held in Karachi under the chairmanship of Sindh Minister for Local Government, Saeed Ghani. Several key matters were approved, while some were deferred for the next session. During the meeting, approval was granted for the draw of residential plots in Phase-IV of the Gulistan-e-Sarmast Housing Scheme, auctioning of available plots across HDA schemes, and disposal of outdated off-road vehicles. It was also agreed to initiate talks with the builders' association ABAD to resolve the issue of HDA fees and charges. However, the proposed budgets for fiscal years 2023-24 (revised), 2024-25, and the prior 2022-23 budgets were not approved. Proposals for grants to support salaries, pensions, outstanding dues, and benefits were deferred for the next Governing Body session. An agenda item seeking approval to cancel leases of 13 shops in Qasimabad and re-auction them due to non-payment of dues was also postponed. Minister Ghani advised that the matter could become politically sensitive and should be avoided for now. Notably, show-cause notices had previously been issued to former P&D Director Abdul Majid Khokhar and other officers over the same issue. When briefing on external development charges from Gulistan-e-Sarmast bookings, it was revealed that HDA receives only 12% for service charges, while the remaining 88% is allocated for development. Former DG HDA and board member Masood Jamani raised objections, which were addressed by senior officers who confirmed the policy's consistency. Further debate erupted over HDA's budget estimates for 2024-25 and the deficit-ridden 2023-24 accounts. The estimated expenditure for 2023-24 was Rs 3.068 billion, while revenue generated was only Rs 403.947 million-resulting in a deficit of over Rs 2.861 billion. Jamani again expressed serious reservations and requested time to brief the board further. Minister Ghani deferred the agenda citing other commitments. On Phase-IV of Gulistan-e-Sarmast, HDA officials revealed they had 2,700 plots available and around 2,500 applicants. When asked about the draw mechanism, they stated it would be computerized. However, Additional Chief Secretary Khalid Hyder Shah objected, suggesting a manual draw to avoid manipulation. Sources disclosed that Phase-IV was originally planned in 2020 by combining unsold plots from earlier phases, without acquiring new land. Around 4,064 applications were received, and Rs 1.16 billion collected.
Borneo Post
10-05-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
SCORE spurs Sarawak's economic growth, rural connectivity, says Premier
Julaihi (sixth right) presents a mock car key to Munirah Zaini who won a new Proton Saga as the lucky draw main prize winner at the Bakti Madani programme at the Miri Indoor Stadium today. MIRI (May 10): The Sarawak Corridor of Renewable Energy (SCORE) has emerged as a major driver of Sarawak's economic growth since its inception in 2008, attracting RM125 billion in investments and generating over 53,000 job opportunities for Sarawakians, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg. Abang Johari highlighted SCORE's success through the rapid development of the Samalaju Industrial Park. He noted that the park has become a key industrial hub for high-tech heavy industries such as aluminium and ferro-alloys, drawing RM57.2 billion in investments and creating over 20,000 jobs. 'With the economic activity generated within the SCORE area, we are confident that our aspiration to transform the economy by emphasising high-value, industry-based diversification can be realised,' he said when officiating the Bakti Madani programme at the Miri Indoor Stadium today. Abang Johari's text-of-speech speech was read by the State Utility and Telecommunications Minister Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi. Abang Johari also said the development of major hydroelectric dams at Bakun, Murum, Baleh, and Batang Ai has laid the foundation for Sarawak's energy sector. These dams not only supply electricity but also enable the state to pursue advancements in green hydrogen energy, he added. 'There are many challenges we face in developing Sarawak's vast territory, especially in the interior regions of SCORE. 'As such, we have adopted a new approach by establishing three Regional Development Agencies (RDAs) namely the Highland Development Agency (HDA), the Northern Regional Development Agency (NRDA), and the Upper Rajang Development Agency (URDA),' he said. To support rural development, especially in the highland areas, the state has allocated RM4.5 billion to the RDAs for infrastructure projects. So far, 247 projects including roads, bridges, and basic utilities are actively being implemented. 'Unlocking the hinterland is the key development goal in HDA areas, covering deep interior regions such as Marudi, Bario, Mulu, and Ba Kelalan. We have no choice but to connect these rural areas through a proper road network. 'This will allow us to unlock the economic potential of these areas and provide better mobility access for the people,' he said. Among the region's highly anticipated infrastructure projects are three major roads – the Miri-Marudi, Marudi-Mulu, and Long Panai-Long Lama stretches – totalling 142km. These roads are expected to enhance connectivity between Miri and Baram's interior and improve access to the Mulu National Park, a Unesco World Heritage Site. 'At the same time, we are in the early planning stages of constructing a road from Long Banga to Bario and Ba Kelalan, spanning approximately 133km. 'Once completed, residents in these areas will benefit economically through sectors such as tourism, trade, and increased cross-border economic activities,' he said. In the NRDA region, two transformative mega projects are in the pipeline – the 87.5km Northern Coastal Highway, expected to begin in the second quarter of this year, and the new Lawas Airport, scheduled to start construction in the fourth quarter. Meanwhile, under URDA's jurisdiction, construction is underway on a 73km road to the Baleh Hydroelectric Dam – a project that will greatly benefit communities in Kapit Division, particularly those in Nanga Mujong, by linking them to the town of Kapit. Abang Johari said that with strategic planning and effective implementation, SCORE will continue to be a catalyst for Sarawak's regional development, in line with the goals of the Post-Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 to ensure balanced urban and rural growth. With continued support from the federal government, he said he is confident that Sarawak's comprehensive development agenda can be accelerated, and ensured its benefits reach all Sarawakians. Among those present at the event were Sarawak Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin, Deputy Minister of Health Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni, and Recoda CEO Datuk Ismawi Ismunie. abang johari development economy julaihi narawi rural SCORE
Borneo Post
06-05-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Special committee to coordinate regional devt agencies to be established
MIRI (May 7): A special committee will be set up to coordinate and report on the progress and challenges faced by all agencies under the Regional Development Agency (RDA), says Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi. The Deputy Minister in Sarawak Premier's Department (Project Coordinator for Regional Development Agencies, Kuching North City Commission-DBKU and Islamic Affairs) said this committee would be chaired by him, and would oversee all nine agencies under the RDA. The nine are the Northern Regional Development Agency (NRDA), Highland Development Agency (HDA), Mid-Rajang Regional Development Agency (Mirrda), Upper Rajang Development Agency (Urda), Rajang Delta Development Agency (Radda), Betong Division Development Agency (BDDA), Sri Aman Development Agency (Sada), Integrated Regional Samarahan Development Agency (Irsda), and Greater Kuching Coordinated Development Agency (GKCDA). 'The RDA was established to accelerate the development pace in their respective regions through the approval of projects without going through federal agencies. 'All project proposals are planned by the respective RDAs and approved by their respective Regional Development Agency Steering Committees,' Dr Abdul Rahman told reporters when met after a visit to the HDA office here yesterday. During the visit, Dr Abdul Rahman said the implementation of all projects under these agencies would be handled by departments such as the Public Works Department (JKR), Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID), Department of Agriculture, Rural Water Supply Department (JBALB), the local authorities, statutory bodies, as well as Resident and district offices. In this regard, he called for strong cooperation from all agencies under the RDA to ensure that approved and planned projects would be implemented smoothly. 'They must also work together with the implementing agencies as well as the monitoring agencies to ensure timely completion.' Dr Abdul Rahman also reminded contractors who had received letters of appointment (LOAs) to kick off their works within 30 days from the date of issuance. 'Agencies must ensure that this directive is strictly followed to prevent delays in project delivery,' he said. Among those present were HDA regional director Juan Ubit, State Implementation and Monitoring Unit director Sapiah Daud, Sarawak Economic Planning Unit (EPU) director Florida Gala James Mijien, HDA Construction Management (Regional Agencies) manager Edward Mathew, and HDA Socio-Economic Planning and Investment Development head Fadzil Asri.
