SOUTH Australian Planning Minister John Rau last week announced that the State Government has proposed a range of amendments to Bills designed to protect the Barossa and McLaren Vale regions from urban sprawl.

While the Bills have already passed the House of Assembly, Mr Rau said he had decided to introduce amendments in the Legislative Council following further feedback from affected councils and members of the community.

"Developing these Bills has been a long and exhaustive process, but it has needed to be given the effect this legislation will have on the Barossa and McLaren Vale communities," Mr Rau said.

Key changes proposed include a new requirement for the Minister to consult with councils:

• When the Acts are reviewed after 5 years of operation;
• When the township boundaries are reviewed after 5 years;
• Before making any alterations to the Planning Strategy arising from the operation of the Acts; and
• Before making any regulation under the Acts.

The government is also proposing a technical change to the role of the Development Assessment Commission (DAC).

Under the change, councils will continue to make the first assessment of certain development applications but the DAC will need to concur with a council decision for it to be approved.

The amendments will also clarify a number of definitions in the Bill, among other minor changes based on community feedback.

Mr Rau said he had also agreed to shift the eastern boundary of the Barossa protection district, following concern about the Henschke winery and cellar door being excluded.

The eastern boundary of the protection district is now proposed to follow the boundary of the Eden Valley wine region.