New planning laws 'reward developers'

The Greens says new planning laws passed through the New South Wales Parliament early today favour developers.

The party sought 94 amendments to the bill and say it missed being submitted to a parliamentary inquiry by one vote.

The Local Government and Shires Association says its happy with some concessions made by the Government.

But Greens MP Sylvia Hale says the legislation only extends the ALP's conflict of interest with political donations.

"It's the Government's reward to big developers for all the money they've poured into the NSW ALP campaign coffers before the last election," she said.

"I'm concerned that the bill will damage the state's environment and heritage."

Ms Hale says there is widespread community concern about the laws.

"They limit the rights of objectors who appeal against decisions and they transfer alot of the costs of administering an incredibly unwielding and confusing planning system onto council," she said.