In Byron, development remains the big issue

Then there is the spread of urbanisation. As a local real estate salesman put it, the village of Lennox Head is now almost a part of the town of Ballina whereas before it was a distinct small town with its own character. What were undulating, coastal farmer's fields a little over a decade ago are now sprawling housing developments, some with building designs that completely ignore the climate. On the edge of Byron Bay itself, the Suffolk Park development started ten or so years ago has almost completed its coverage of land to the west of the highway. Suffolk Park, once a small holiday centre for city families, has more than doubled its population.

Byron Council's building restrictions are holding high-rise at bay. Locals fear the spread of Gold Coast high-rise into the shire and any move to allow it in would certainly start a major political battle. There is more than enough evidence for that. Yet without some intelligent attempt at medium density, the town is likely to continue to sprawl into its hinterland and along the coast. Innovation in town planning and building design are urgently needed.

The popularity of Byron Bay to retirees and city people seeking lifestyle change has pushed up real estate values that have only been slightly blunted by this year's rise in interest rates. The market has certainly slowed - a real estate agent with a prominent national chain said that houses now take up to six months to sell where only a year ago demand drove a rapid turnover. The cost of rental accommodation has risen substantially because it is in short supply. Even converted garages in Byron rent for upwards of $180 a week. The outcome of the high cost of accommodation has forced an exodus of the less affluent from Byron inland towards Lismore, where costs are lower.

Facing this pressure on infrastructure is Jane Barham, Greens mayor. She heads a council with a reputation for chaos, but criticism of her performance appears to be muted. Whether that will last is questionable: The Greens face the substantial challenges that have been building with population growth and, like their predecessors, appear helpless when it comes to growth in employment opportunities.

Whether the Greens develop a different approach to governance and introduce new and innovative solutions to the region's challenges remains to be seen. Failure to do so could result in disappointment in their programme and falling electoral fortunes in future polls.