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By Nick Kirlew During the 2026 Chan Ward by-election campaign, I took some time to reflect on how long we have been fighting the exact same battles to protect the character, lifestyle, and environment of our local neighborhoods. I recently dug up the May 2004 PLan Newsletter from our archives. Reading through it, I was…

This article is a straight copy from the NT Independent 19/05/2026. Sonja Pastor, a PLan volunteer takes aim and hits the target, regards Nick. https://ntindependent.com.au/letter-to-the-editor-lee-point-plan-lacked-scrutiny-from-the-start Dear Editor, At its April 28 meeting, Darwin Council formally resolved to support a Senate inquiry into the Lee Point development. This is a significant decision. It is not about…

Liz Trevaskis ABC Afternoons interview with Nick Kirlew Nick Kirlew’s Independent Candidacy In this ABC Radio interview from the 2026 campaign trail, PLan convener Nick Kirlew discusses his vision for local council accountability, drawing on his 40-year history in Darwin and long-term advocacy as the convener of the Planning Action Network (PLan). Speaking with host…

A new planning application (PA2026/0110) is proposing a massive change for the land along Dick Ward Drive (covering parts of Ludmilla and Coconut Grove).  While the application frames this as a “minor administrative update,” it actually aims to shift the site away from restricted light-industrial use to open it up for intensive, public-facing commercial developments…

“Our neighborhoods belong to the people who live in them.” As the Convener of PLan: the Planning Action Network Inc, I’ve spent years fighting for transparent, sustainable development across the Territory. I recently joined Jess Ong on ABC Darwin to discuss a major issue right here in our backyard: the proposed commercial rezoning of part…

Archived Record: The full text of the speech prepared and delivered by Nick Kirlew at the Sunset Park Candidates Forum on May 20, 2026, during the Chan Ward by-election. Good evening everyone and thank you to the organizers and to all of you for being here tonight. I always prefer to talk off the cuff,…

ABC Radio In a recent interview with ABC Radio Darwin’s Jess Ong, PLan Convener Nick Kirlew addressed a growing concern for residents and visitors alike: the long-term vacant lots and “pits” scattered across the CBD. From the infamous “big hole” on Mitchell Street to the 24-year-old Asti Motel site on Smith Street, these stagnant spaces…

For four decades, I have called the Northern Territory home. I’m running for the Chan Ward because I believe our council needs someone who understands the value of a hard day’s work and has the professional experience to manage the complex challenges of a growing city. A Foundation of Hard Work My life before the…

Date Time Event Friday May 8 Nominations open Tuesday 12 May 5.00 pm Electoral roll closes Thursday 14 May 12:00 noon Nominations close 1:00 pm Declaration of nominations, draw for position on ballot papers Sunday 17th May 8:00 am Nightcliff Markets 11:30 Karu Park Monday 18 May 8:00 am Postal vote mail-out commences. Mobile voting…