After an extensive legal battle, the developers of a $40-million residential project in Belrose have received approval, following substantial amendments to the initial proposal.
The Land and Environment Court has finalised a lengthy dispute by sanctioning a scaled-back version of the initially ambitious mixed-use development planned for 28 Lockwood Ave.
The new plan discards elements like the gymnasium and commercial car wash, instead focusing on 49 dwellings and increasing the parking availability to 238 spaces, compared to the previously planned 190.
These changes were instrumental in addressing the council’s concerns over height, bulk, and traffic impact, which initially led to the project’s rejection (DA 2019/1427).
Northern Beaches Council initially refused the development application citing 18 different grounds, predominantly related to the proposed building’s scale and potential impacts on local amenities and public opinion. Significant alterations to the design during the court appeal satisfied the council’s appointed experts, leading to a reassessment and eventual approval by the commissioner.
Despite the legal approval, the development continues to face opposition from the Belrose community. Residents express concerns that the increased dwellings will strain local resources and significantly alter the area’s character.
Here’s a timeline of key events related to the Belrose development saga:
2017
- Northern Beaches Council sells the 5,332 sqm block at 28 Lockwood Ave, formerly home to the Belrose Library, to fund a modern library nearby. The site had become an eyesore and was attracting vandalism.
January 2020
- The Northern Beaches Council rejected plans for a $44 million redevelopment of the old library site. Platinum Property Advisers’ proposal included a five-storey shop-top project with 51 apartments and a gym. The rejection was due to incomplete proposals and requests to exceed the maximum permitted building height.
April 2020
- The initial proposal for the $40 million mixed-use development at 28 Lockwood Ave is submitted, featuring retail space, a gymnasium, a commercial car wash, 51 apartments, and 190 parking spaces.
2020-2023
- Prolonged legal and planning disputes, involving multiple amendments and community consultations. The project faced strong opposition from local residents and was subject to rigorous scrutiny by the council.
April 2024
- After substantial amendments, the Land and Environment Court approves a modified version of the development plan. The approved plan now includes 49 dwellings and 238 parking spaces, but omits the gymnasium and commercial car wash.
- Northern Beaches Council and the Sydney North Planning Panel endorse the amended proposal, after initial refusal based on 18 different grounds concerning the project’s scale and impact on the local community.
The development’s approval marks a contentious but decisive step forward in utilising the 28 Lockwood Ave site.
Published 23-April-2024