Having a runway separation standard published, with defined conditions is way better, safer and more professional than running things pretty close occasionally. Either you have a separation standard or you don't. If you don't then you hold your hand up - that's part of the SMS too, and part of a just culture within the ANSP.
Totally agree. Back in the 90's, I was responsible for getting SRG approval for a 'land after the departing' procedure. Runway utilisation immediately increased dramatically, go-arounds decreased & everyone involved was happy. The criteria used to permit its use were stringent & were no more 'dangerous' than a common 'land after' procedure.
It had nothing to do with
the authorities could not be bothered to supply the appropriate infrastructure
.