When unallocated State land is being added to a lot, the State is entitled to the added value of the land, or the market value at the time of sale. The profitability of land subdivision projects is largely dependent on the rate of sale of developed lots. By offering builders terms to selected builders this will not only increase the rate of sale but initiate construction activity within the subdivision thereby increasing marketability and reducing risk. Oyster farmers rely on offshore leases for their industry. Their shore-based occupation of unallocated State land should reflect a similar levels of security to those of offshore leases, whilst not allowing the site to be utilised for other purposes such as a residence.
Islands are unique and are difficult to service and manage.
A policy to discourage leasing of further islands for private residential purposes has therefore been adopted. Waterfront leases at times have no dedicated access and if they are considered separately to the parent dry land, there may be on going management difficulties. The valuation for rating and taxing purposes will allow the lands to be considered together with adjacent lands, if they are in the same ownership. A significant development usually entails a number of investigations prior to commencement. This policy enables the existing tenure to continue or short term occupancy of the site, whilst not committing the State to approval of the development.