The construction of a two-storey dual occupancy development and subsequent demolition of an existing dwelling in Booker Bay was approved unanimously by the Local Planning Panel (LPP) on March 24.
The decision comes after the 40 Webb Rd development application was referred to the LPP due to non-compliance with the Gosford Development Control Plan 2013 and matters raised in public submissions including the removal of trees and amenity.
At an estimated cost of nearly $500,000, the applicant plans to demolish the existing dwelling and all site improvements, remove all existing site trees including an Apple Gum and three Jacarandas, construct a two-storey dual occupancy development containing two units and provide access to the site and associated road works.
Both units will include four bedrooms with three bathrooms, an alfresco area and a private open space however unit two will include a single garage with carport.
Right: View of proposed development from Eastern Rd
The LPP said the proposal is satisfactory in regards to the relevant environmental planning instruments, plans and policies, with no significant issues or impacts identified.
However the LPP said the applicant must plant a minimum of three replacement trees within the road reserve along Eastern Rd and one replacement tree along Webb Rd.
The replacement trees must be evenly spaced and adequately staked/protected to prevent vandalism.
The applicant must also maintain all works associated with the approved Landscape Plans for a period of 12 months from the date of any Occupation Certificate to ensure the survival and establishment of the landscaping.
The applicant also must replace all damaged, dead or missing areas of lawn and plantings at the completion of the landscaping maintenance period, including adjoining road reserve areas that are in a state of decline, to a healthy and vigorous condition in accordance with the approved detailed Landscape Plans and Development Consent Conditions.
Council received 15 public submissions about the development application with all raising concerns about the removal of the trees within the site including a mature Angophora Floribunda commonly known as an Apple Gum.
At the LPP meeting, Francis Wiffen addressed the panel and spoke about why they were against the proposal, whilst Sandra Trad represented the applicant as their Building Designer/Drafter.
Maisy Rae