A parliamentary inquiry in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) is set to examine the effectiveness of controlled activity orders, which empower the government to enforce lease conditions on property owners.The inquiry follows widespread community frustration over long-dormant sites that have become eyesores and failed to meet their intended purposes.

Notable examples include the Big Splash waterpark in Macquarie, the Hawker Tennis Centre, and the Richardson shops, where a supermarket closed in 2019.

ACT Greens leader Jo Clay, chairing the inquiry, emphasized the need for community input on improving compliance and enforcement in the planning system.

Over 7,300 residents signed a petition demanding the cancellation of the Big Splash Crown lease, while more than 1,200 called for the termination of the Hawker Tennis Centre lease.

The committee will assess whether controlled activity orders are effective in ensuring site maintenance, compliance with leases, and preventing unauthorized developments.

Planning Minister Chris Steel noted that while orders were issued for the Big Splash site, financial penalties were not applied due to the lack of immediate incentives.Prosecution remains an option but is seen as a lengthy process.The inquiry aims to address gaps in the current system and improve outcomes for both the community and property owners.