14 Oct 2009http://www.manningrivertimes.com.au/news/local/news/general/campaign-to-save-street/1648670.aspx?storypage=0
TAREE residents are rallying together to object to a proposed double-storey, NSW Department of Housing development at 17-21 Plummer Street.
The proposal consists of 14 medium density units – eight one bedroom units and six two-bedroom units.
“We don’t object to single storey units, but we do object to a multi double-storey development,” John Chapman, who lives near the proposed development, said.
Mr Chapman and his neighbours sought legal advice from Stacks The Law Firm and a solicitor’s letter on their behalf has been sent to the NSW Department of Housing.
Managing director of Stacks, Maurie Stack, concedes that legally there is no obstacle to the NSW Department of Housing proposal going ahead.
“But it seems to be an inappropriate use of federal funds,” he said.
Member for Myall Lakes John Turner said approximately $5.52 million has been allocated to the Myall Lakes electorate for this type of housing. Mr Turner addressed the issue in State Parliament and said: “While obviously there is a problem with land availability in the Sydney area and high density may be the answer, there can be no excuse for this proposal in regional areas such as Taree.
“The Government must re-think the changes and instruct their architects to come up with designs sympathetic to the area, not just impose Sydney designer concepts in regional NSW.”
NSW Housing does not legally have to consult with the Greater Taree City Council or gain local approval, Mr Stack confirmed.
However, Mr Stack said the community expects NSW Housing to act responsibly.
“We are hopeful the matter will be taken seriously,” he said.
Mr Chapman and his neighbours said their major concerns are loss of privacy and increased traffic and noise.
Darren Keys moved to the street in September.
“I didn’t know about the planned housing development,” he claimed.
“Not until I received a letter from the NSW Department of Housing on September 21.”
He said he specifically bought the house in Plummer Street because it was quiet.
“I looked at places for my kids to ride their bikes safely up and down the street.
“I wouldn’t have bought the house if I’d known about the NSW Housing development,” he said.
“I am not happy.”
Beryl Mooney is another irate resident. Her property is next door to the proposed 14 units.
“I have lived in the street for 50 years,” she said. “I am going to lose all my privacy, as the double-storey units have balconies and the people living there will see straight into my home. The height will also block all my sunlight.”
“This is a totally different plan to what the NSW Housing said it would be,” Mr Chapman claimed.
“Originally it was single storey units.”
The current proposal includes four carparks for 14 homes.
“Where are the people going to park?,” Mr Chapman asked.
Maree and Leon Rouland have lived in the street for 26 years. They are concerned about drainage issues.
“We have problems with floods as it is,” Mr Rouland explained.
“This development site will exacerbate this. I want the minister to show us how he will prevent this.”
A full set of the plans is on view at the Greater Taree City Council Administration Centre.
The NSW Department of Housing has been taking submissions which close today. For further information contact the department on 8753 8000.
