Plans for a controversial development, surrounding significant local heritage buildings, have been significantly reduced – but the community still remains cautious.
The developer for 2A Gregory Place in Harris Park has revealed the first look at revised plans, following community backlash and a petition from the local Federal Member.
Under the new plans, 483 dwellings will be slashed to approximately 320 terraces and apartments. It would see around 640 to 800 people living at the complex.
Building heights will be reduced throughout the project, including along the site’s boundaries where it connects with Hambledon Cottage and Experiment Farm Reserve, along with lower built form adjacent to Our Lady of Lebanon Co-Cathedral.
Originally, the development was expected to reach as high as eight stories tall.
It also features a new unobstructed view corridor from Hambledon Cottage to the Our Lady of Lebanon Co-Cathedral, and increased parking for residents and visitors.
The plans have been shared with the public via a new website, ahead of submission to the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure.
The website said the constructive feedback received from the community has been “instrumental” in shaping the updated concept plan.
“The updated concept plan continues our commitment to providing affordable housing, which makes-up 50 per cent of the project,” it states.
“The build-to-rent complex includes a mix of apartments and terraces. It is designed to support a long-term rental community where residents have the option to downsize or upsize within the same complex as their needs change.”
The changes come after Federal Member for Parramatta Dr Andrew Charlton launched a petition calling for the development to be stopped, saying it would mean “no more blue skies” for the Maronite community at Our Lady of Lebanon Co-Cathedral and Hambledon Cottage.
Although he said he is supportive of the changes that have been made to the plans, Charlton still voiced fears it would affect the historic value of Hambledon Cottage, Elizabeth Farm and Experiment Farm, which surround the proposed site.
“These positive changes reflect the community campaign that we have been working on,” he said.
“However, I remain concerned about the impact of the development on the historic properties around the site and the impact on traffic and amenity.”
Last month, Charlton announced that Elizabeth Farm, Hambledon Cottage and Experiment Farm have all collectively been added to the National Heritage Finalised Priority Assessment List for community consultation.
“While National Heritage Listing is a good step forward, the decision on this development will be made by the State Government,” Charlton added.
To find out more about the revised plans, go to http://www.2agregoryplace.com.au.
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