In a victory for Glenmore Park residents, Penrith Councillors have unanimously voted down a proposal for units and townhouses along Glengarry Drive.
Three affected residents spoke on behalf of a packed public gallery on Monday evening, informing Councillors of the many issues with the proposal that included 42 apartments, seven townhouses and 71 car parking spaces at 119 Glengarry Drive.
Diane Pearson, who lives near the proposed development said residents were very concerned.
“We feel a little deceived by Stockland [the developers] who never mentioned anything about highrise apartments going in,” she said.
“These units would be built on the extremities of Glenmore Park where it is at least 15 minutes to Penrith railway station. They would all have to drive cars but there is a lack of infrastructure to support so many people.”
Fellow resident Glenn Harris agreed.
“I would ask that Council consider the issues raised in the business paper with these units when considering any other proposals for units in Glenmore Park as these developments will negatively impact residents,” he said.
Glenmore Park local Carly Jardim said the units were not in character with Glenmore Park’s single and two storey homes.
“At almost 15 metres high and 112 metres long, and joining with an existing development, this would create a 200 metre long wall of units,” she said.
“Bradley Street is the gateway to the suburb and so these vacant blocks should be used for an urban design statement.”
After listening to residents’ concerns on Monday night, Councillors unanimously agreed that the units should not be given approval.
“These people are the type of people we want in Penrith because they are passionate about our city,” said Cr Bernard Bratusa of the residents in the gallery.
“I will whole heartedly support the recommendation of council staff to refuse approval. I think Council has got this right.”
Cr Karen McKeown also praised the residents for their conduct.
“This is a situation where common sense has prevailed,” she said.
“The residents have conducted themselves well throughout the consultation process and this is a great outcome for them.”
