The Society makes this point in response to a discussion paper issued by Government as part of the process of developing its new Long-term Transport Master Plan (the paper can be read at http://haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/transportmasterplan).

 

“ If we do not do this, we run a high risk of changing the nature of the suburb for the worse, particularly with respect to increased congestion and highly constrained other travel,” the Society’s submission says.

 

Some of the other points made in the submission include:

 

·   The society supports the extension of light rail to Circular Quay, and the Universities of Sydney and New South Wales.

·   Glebe bus services should be improved by increasing the number of late-night services and scrapping timetables in favour of a frequency of service system (often referred to as ‘turn up and ride’, the same system that applies to the Paris Metro).

·   Small buses should be introduced to connect Glebe to surrounding suburbs that are not served by existing trunk routes.

·   Up to date information about bus services should be available to customers on their mobile phones.

·   A regular ferry service should be introduced connecting the CBD and Rozelle Bay.

 

The full text of the Society’s submission can be read by clicking here.

Following the Planning Committee meeting of 5 March it seems likely the City will adopt its new Plan as amended. This means stronger controls over development. The amendments include almost all those proposed by the Society:

1.      Greater protection for Glebe's foreshore parks

2.      Special infrastructure zoning for public buildings

3.      Consistent and increased Heritage listings

4.      Reduced maximum heights for new development in certain key parts of Glebe, especially Allen Street and Cook Street, but also for parts of Glebe Point Road.

 

The Height and density controls for Durham Court , 417 Glebe Point Road, have been reduced, and this makes it more difficult for the present owners to gain approval for their present very large redevelopment proposal.

 

The Society accepts there will be a redevelopment of this site, currently a collection of 1920s flats, at some stage. However, we suggest this takes place within the existing building envelope and with minimal impact on neighbours.

 

In order to secure this outcome, we ask members to object to the current proposal on the grounds of excessive density and height, and request that any new proposal should not exceed the limits imposed by the new CityPlan.