BY DAKOTA TAIT
New developments across Port Stephens could be required to use a lighter-coloured roof, with Council set to discuss a proposal to mandate the idea at Tuesday night's meeting.
Lighter-coloured roofs are understood to better reflect the heat and light, meaning they're generally better insulators and create lower temperatures in homes.
Residential developments often already opt for a lighter-coloured roof, to meet statewide policy on energy efficiency.
Councillor Giacomo Arnott put the motion forward, saying it's a simple way to cut both bills and energy consumption in summer.
"I think it's a no-brainer to at the very least consider and put some thought into," he said.
"There's always going to be some work to do to make sure that we can get the planning principles correct and to make sure that we're not unnecessarily adding to the cost of new homes."
If the motion's successful, staff are set to create a report exploring the proposal.
They'll consider how the rule might conflict with other development standards, as well as resident complaints about the glare and reflectivity of lighter-coloured roofing.
"Most people probably don't look too much at the colour of their roof," Cr Arnott said. "I know I certainly don't look at the colour of my roof too often."
"I can't imagine there would be any real opposition to something like this, if it means lower energy costs and it means a better future for local families and their children."
