Umina housing proposal riles neighbours

Exhibited plans for a new multi-unit housing development in Umina Beach have been criticised by the public for failing to meet legal planning requirements.

The application will be on exhibition until August 20.

The development application seeks approval for the erection of four three-bedroom townhouses at 37 Paul St.

The flat, 808.3 square metre site currently contains a single-dwelling house which would be demolished if the application is approved.

The estimated cost of works is $800,000.

The applicant states the proposed units, which will have front courtyard fencing, provide sufficient areas to store mobile waste collection bins away from the street and clothes drying areas that would be screened from other dwellings and the public domain.

Six parking spaces will be made available for residents.

Vehicular access is proposed via a central driveway to separate garages provided for each unit.

A range of public submissions have already been received in relation to the application during the first four weeks of a six-week exhibition period.

“A new development is great for the Peninsula but not when it is not sympathetic to the area, seeks maximum profit over liveability, and does not consider enough garden and planting,” one submission said.

One submission from a neighbour said the ‘excessive’ proposal detracts from the overall ambience of the area and asked Council to reject the application unless it is amended to reflect the existing norms of the area.

Another submission suggested the development would be ‘unsightly’ and create more traffic around local streets.

Another concerned neighbour said the proposal posed significant fire, environmental, noise pollution and pest issues to surrounding properties.

A resident also said there had been no on-site notice to inform surrounding properties of the demolition and the planned dwelling was not in keeping with the current street design.

Source:
DA Tracker, Aug 2
DA 62203/2021