Federal Member for Macquarie Susan Templeman said most residents will be deeply concerned that the changes to low rise density housing could lead to overdevelopment in the Blue Mountains.

The NSW Liberal Government has announced it would force its Low Rise Medium Density Housing Code onto councils across the state, a move that has consistently been opposed by Blue Mountains City Council.

So far, the council has been unable to get an exemption to the new rules.

“I am horrified that in an area as prone to bushfires as the Blue Mountains, a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach to development simply isn’t a good fit at all,” Ms Templeman said.

“This kind of reckless approach to planning could potentially put lives in danger.

“The summer bushfires have shown us that a very careful approach based on individual applications is needed when it comes to development in our fragile area.

“We are not just another part of Sydney. The Blue Mountains is one of the most bushfire prone regions on the planet, and the Hawkesbury is a giant flood plain. What is it with the Liberals and their need to overdevelop and destroy the unique character of our towns and villages?

“I would certainly hate to see local expertise overruled when it comes to planning decision. I share the outrage expressed by Blue Mountains Mayor Mark Greenhill, and fully support Blue Mountains City Council in its push for an exemption.”