HIA executive director David Bare believes that NSW planning and public spaces minister Rob Stokes should be commended for his decision which lets construction sites operate on weekends and public holidays during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Recently HIA has put forward the proposition that building sites should be allowed to operate on weekends and public holidays during the COVID-19 outbreak. This was to support our builders and tradespeople to implement the HIA Making Space on Site guidelines and maintain efficiencies on site,” David says.

He also mentions that the HIA is pleased the NSW government has taken up the recommendations to support the building industry and is confident that HIA members will be able to carry out their work in a manner that protects both the projects and the clients.

“The extended hours allow the industry minimise the potential for lost productivity during the pandemic, and will in turn support the economy of NSW,” he says.

“The construction and development sectors, make up 10% of NSW’s economy, it is vital that it experiences the least disruption possible to ensure the industry and jobs can bounce back after the crisis is over and we continue to build homes for consumers.”

The Environmental Planning and Assessment (COVID-19 Development – Construction Work Days) Order 2020 is now in place and will remain until the pandemic is over or the advice of NSW health changes.

“The Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 was amended on 24 March to enable Mr Stokes to issue orders that override normal planning controls during the COVID-19 pandemic,” David comments.

“Compliance with this order will be monitored by the NSW government and HIA members will comply fully with all social distancing and COVID-19 prevention measures required to ensure work keeps moving and people stay safe.”