Problem #1

The Land and Survey Dept apparently makes a comment on the house design before the Local Authority processes the submission of the house plans.  And on the 17th Dec, they said the current plans had to be rejected as it includes an liveable attic (in other words considered a 3 storey house).  The authority for approving this attic resides with the dreaded SPA (State Planning Authority).  Needless to say, it would be a foolhardy step to seek approval from the SPA.  They make take months to approve.  Subdivisions approval by the SPA has been known to take years.  So we have to change the plans to remove the staircase access to the attic.  Although I had an eye to use the attic, it would have been mainly for storage rather than liveability so thats ok.