"Stage 2 is commencing now and allows for further comment and input into the draft Area Plan, which has been prepared by taking into account community feedback and background investigations from Stage 1," said Dr David Ritchie, Chair of the Northern Territory Planning Commission.

The draft Area Plan is a long term vision for the use of land within central Alice Springs, including what type of development can occur and where and the identification of infrastructure requirements for residents and visitors into the future. The draft Area Plan considers land for residential and commercial purposes, and supports the need to maintain open space for recreational purposes through the enhancement of the Todd River.

Alice Springs is the largest urban centre outside of Darwin and Palmerston and is an important hub in the southern region, servicing remote areas of Western Australia, South Australia and Queensland.

The strong cultural and heritage background of Alice Springs, along with an enviable natural environment, contributes greatly to the town’s popularity as a major tourist location.

"The Area Plan will build on previous work and studies. It will look at current and future land uses, community needs, transport and infrastructure planning, as well as environmental and heritage values," said Dr Ritchie.

Anyone interested in becoming involved is invited to visit us at the Alice Springs show and at our pop up stalls.

Further details are available online at www.planningcommission.nt.gov.au. The closing date for submissions is COB Friday, 10 August 2018.