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State Significant Development

Response to Submissions

Malek Fahd Islamic School Expansion

The Hills Shire

Current Status: Response to Submissions

Interact with the stages for their names

  1. SEARs
  2. Prepare EIS
  3. Exhibition
  4. Collate Submissions
  5. Response to Submissions
  6. Assessment
  7. Recommendation
  8. Determination

Construction of new school facilities, refurbishment of existing secondary school buildings and demolition of existing primary school buildings, new vehicle access, internal access and car parking, landscaping and associated works.

Attachments & Resources

Early Consultation (2)

Notice of Exhibition (1)

Request for SEARs (1)

SEARs (2)

EIS (48)

Response to Submissions (2)

Agency Advice (7)

Submissions

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Showing 21 - 40 of 192 submissions
Name Withheld
Object
NORTH KELLYVILLE , New South Wales
Message
Formal Complaint Regarding the Malek Fahd Islamic School Expansion (SSD-56264716)

Dear Government / Council,

I am writing to formally express my concerns regarding the proposed expansion of the Malek Fahd Islamic School (SSD-56264716), located at 20 Mungerie Road, Beaumont Hills. While I fully support the right to education and religious freedom, I believe that this expansion presents several issues that require serious consideration before approval.

Concerns Regarding the Expansion:

1. Community Diversity and Balanced Development
Our community is home to people of diverse cultural and religious backgrounds. While we respect and support religious education, the expansion of [Islamic School Name] may contribute to a shift that does not reflect the multicultural nature of our neighborhood. Instead of focusing on one particular religious group, future educational developments should ensure inclusivity and equal opportunities for all residents, regardless of background.

2. Need for Diverse Educational Options
A significant expansion of a single-faith-based institution may unintentionally limit options for families who seek a more diverse or secular educational environment. To maintain balance, the community should consider whether additional facilities—such as public or interfaith schools—would better serve the broad spectrum of residents.

3. Preserving Community Cohesion
A well-balanced community thrives when no single institution dominates the educational landscape. Encouraging diversity in schooling ensures that all families feel represented and included. The approval of this expansion should take into account whether it aligns with the long-term vision of our multicultural community.

4. Strain on Local Infrastructure
A larger school population will put additional strain on local utilities, roads, and public services. The community should be reassured that the expansion will not negatively affect existing residents.

5. Noise and Environmental Impact
With a larger student body, the noise levels from school activities, playgrounds, and daily operations may significantly increase. Additionally, the environmental impact of more construction, increased waste, and possible deforestation should be assessed.

6. Traffic and Parking Issues
The proposed expansion will increase traffic congestion in the area, particularly during drop-off and pick-up times. This may lead to safety hazards for pedestrians, inconvenience for local residents, and difficulty for emergency vehicle access.

7. Zoning and Land Use Regulations
The expansion may set a precedent for further large-scale developments that alter the character of the neighborhood.

I appreciate your attention to this matter and look forward to your response.
Name Withheld
Object
BEAUMONT HILLS , New South Wales
Message
There are already issues on the narrow, suburban Mungerie Road twice every school day with traffic being congested due to cars making a right hand turn into the school when dropping off or picking up the kids attending this school.
During those times, emergency vehicles, as well as ordinary vehicles, are already badly hindered by this traffic congestion with cars, waiting to ingress the school, blocking the road.
Increasing the size of the school as proposed would merely exacerbate the problem, not to mention the issues arising from trucks and heavy equipment needed to undertake the construction that would similarly clog the road in peak hour morning periods and afternoon knock off times.
The proposed plans do not adequately deal with this traffic issue.
I also object to the construction of any building of more than 1 storey what is a residential suburb. 2 & 3 storey buildings are excessively higher than all of the surrounding homes in this suburb and should not be allowed.
Name Withheld
Object
NORTH KELLYVILLE , New South Wales
Message
1.Increased Traffic and Safety Concerns
2.Community Disruption
3.Lack of Inclusivity and Diversity
Name Withheld
Object
TURRAMURRA , New South Wales
Message
I object to this project for the following reasons:
Malek Fahd is located within a local suburban area, with a known fire zone area immediately across the road. The traffic is currently congested & difficult to navigate. With increased foot and car traffic at drop off, pick up & other times of the day, it is possible that lives could be endangered in an emergency.
The school is some distance from public transport. The closest metro stations are Rouse Hill (2.5 km away) & Kellyville (3.8 km away) & is currently linked to the already congested Withers Road.

It is my understanding that several schools are located within 1 km of Malek Fahd. These include Beaumont Hills Public (on Parkway Drive, which exceeded its 2024 cap by 20 students), Lady of the Angels Primary School, Rouse Hill High (which exceeded its 2024 cap by 367 students), & Ironbark Ridge (which exceeded its 2024 cap by 497 students), all of which are situated on Withers Rd. Traffic has been noticeably more congested & difficult to navigate. The addition of more traffic (which is more than double if this submission is allowed) will create unnecessary grid lock and potentially test the patience of all.

The lack of planning & infrastructure in the surrounding area, the influx of students, & its subsequent impact on the local community are of significant concern. Because of the congestion, private driveways are currently being used as 3-point turning points, creating an unsafe environment for other traffic & pedestrians.

If the middle island on Mungerie Rd remains, this would mean traffic would be entering travelling from Withers Road. This setup could cause significant traffic congestion backed up down Mungerie Road (which already happens). Cars travelling down Mungerie Rd towards the Withers Road roundabout will need to turn around, entering an already congested one-lane roundabout, further exacerbating the issue (which also already happens).

Additionally, will the proposed prayer hall be used outside of the school community, or on the weekends? This would severely impact the local community via traffic congestion and parking issues.

I believe that doubling the current student intake will have a significantly negative impact on the local community, for the above reasons. The current area is already far too traffic busy.
Name Withheld
Object
BEAUMONT HILLS , New South Wales
Message
Malek Fahd is located within a local suburban area. The closest metro stations are Rouse Hill (2.5 km away) and Kellyville (3.8 km away) and is currently linked to the already congested Withers Road.

Additionally, several schools are located within 1 km of Malek Fahd. These include Beaumont Hills Public (on Parkway Drive, which exceeded the 2024 student cap by 20 students) then the Lady of the Angels Primary School, Rouse Hill Highschool (which exceeded its 2024 student cap by 367 students), and Ironbark Ridge (which exceeded its 2024 cap by 497 students), all of which are situated on Withers road.

The lack of planning and infrastructure in the surrounding area and the influx of students and the subsequent impact on the local community are of significant concerns.

If the middle island on Mungerie Rd was to remain this would mean traffic would be entering travelling from Withers Road. This setup could cause traffic to back up down Mungerie Road (which already happens). Additionally, cars travelling down Mungerie Road towards the Withers Road roundabout will have to turn around, entering an already congested one-lane roundabout, further exacerbating the issue (which already happens)

Currently there is no provision or option of extra lanes due to power poles located along the side of Mungerie Rd across from Malek Fahd. I personally have issue regarding the increase of student numbers and the associated building work until local infrastructure has been upgraded for this demand.
Name Withheld
Object
BEAUMONT HILLS , New South Wales
Message
Dear Department of Planning, Housing, and Infrastructure Team and Neighbours,

I am writing to formally express my concerns regarding the proposed expansion and redevelopment of Malek Fahd Islamic School, which is situated immediately adjacent to my residence in Beaumont Hills. While I understand the need for educational development, I am deeply concerned about the potential negative impacts this expansion will have on the local community, particularly in terms of traffic congestion, strain on infrastructure, noise levels, privacy, and changes to the suburban character of our neighbourhood.

1, Concerns Regarding Increased Traffic and Infrastructure Strain
The current infrastructure in Beaumont Hills is already under significant strain, particularly during morning and afternoon peak hours. Withers Road, which provides access to Malek Fahd Islamic School, is already experiencing high traffic volumes, and the proposed expansion will further exacerbate this issue. An increase in student enrolment, as well as additional school staff and parents commuting to the area, will result in further congestion, making it more difficult for local residents to travel efficiently.

Moreover, the expansion will introduce additional vehicle access points on Mungerie Road, further compounding traffic and safety risks. This is particularly concerning for the many young children in our community who walk or bike to school, as well as those who play in the area after school hours. Increased congestion and a higher number of vehicles in the vicinity will pose serious safety hazards, heightening the risk of accidents.

Additionally, the planned demolition and subsequent construction of new school buildings will generate excessive noise pollution over an extended period. Even after completion, a larger school facility will likely result in sustained higher noise levels, impacting the well-being of residents—especially young children and the elderly—who require a peaceful living environment.

2. Concerns Over Land Use Changes and Loss of Open Space
Beaumont Hills is known for its family-friendly, suburban character, with an abundance of parks, green spaces, and residential amenities that contribute to a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. The suburb was developed in the late 1990s and early 2000s as part of the northwest growth corridor and has already reached its capacity in terms of supporting existing infrastructure. Overdevelopment should be carefully managed to preserve the quality of life for current residents.

The proposed expansion includes the construction of multiple two- to three-story buildings, which would significantly alter the residential nature of the area. These taller buildings would inevitably impact privacy, as they could provide direct sightlines into the backyards and windows of neighbouring homes, infringing on the personal space of residents. The increased building height would also change the visual landscape, creating an imposing institutional presence in an area traditionally dominated by low-rise residential housing.

Furthermore, the expansion plan includes substantial landscaping modifications and tree removal, which threatens the green and nature-oriented character of the suburb. Green spaces not only contribute to the aesthetics of the area but also serve as essential recreational and environmental buffers that enhance community well-being. Removing these elements would diminish the overall liveability of the neighbourhood.

3, Request for Consideration
Given these concerns, I respectfully urge the Department of Planning, Housing, and Infrastructure to reject the proposed expansion and maintain the school at its current size. The existing infrastructure and community environment are already at capacity, and further development would place unnecessary strain on residents and local amenities.

While educational institutions are an essential part of any community, their expansion must be balanced with the needs and well-being of the residents who call this area home. I appreciate your attention to these concerns and look forward to a constructive dialogue regarding this matter.
Name Withheld
Object
BEAUMONT HILLS , New South Wales
Message
Dear NSW Department of Planning and Environment,

I object to the proposed expansion of the Malek Fahd Islamic School. My property is located near the school, and I have serious concerns regarding the proposal's impact on traffic, the environment, and my family.

The increased student population will significantly worsen traffic congestion on Mungerie Road, particularly at the intersection with Guardian Avenue, making it extremely difficult to exit my street during peak hours.

The proposal's potential impact on existing trees is also concerning. We value the established trees currently visible from our property and strongly object to their removal.

My partner is legally blind. The proposed construction and increased traffic, including new school entrances, will create significant safety hazards for her as she navigates the area.

Furthermore, the expansion will negatively impact our property value. The proposed new buildings will intrude on our privacy and obstruct our current views.

I urge the Department to carefully consider these objections and reject the current proposal. A revised proposal that addresses these concerns is necessary.

Sincerely,
Concerned Resident.
Tiefu Zhang
Object
BEAUMONT HILLS , New South Wales
Message
I’m here to express my strong objection to the proposed expansion of the Malek Fahd Islamic School Expansion (SUB-79683226). I believe this expansion will have a significantly detrimental impact on our local community. As a private school, most of students do not reside within the immediate vicinity and rely on private vehicles for transportation. This influx of vehicles will further burden our already congested roads, impacting local residents' commutes, access to amenities, and overall quality of life. The current infrastructure is simply not equipped to handle the additional traffic load. I do worried about the impact on around roads or intersections. The added congestion will likely lead to increased delays, noise pollution, and safety concerns for pedestrians and other road users, especially children. The expansion of this private school, which by its nature draws students from a wider area, places a disproportionate burden on the local community's infrastructure without necessarily benefiting the immediate residents. The increased traffic congestion, noise pollution and safety concerns would be impact everyone in this area.
Name Withheld
Object
BEAUMONT HILLS , New South Wales
Message
I strongly object to this plan. The infrastructure is not in place to support such a big expansion. The traffic in the surrounding areas are back to back when during the school drop off and pick up. The roads are not made for the sheer weight of traffic that this expansion would create.
Name Withheld
Object
BEAUMONT HILLS , New South Wales
Message
As a resident of Beaumont Hills in the vicinity of the Malek Fahd Islamic School, I object to various elements of the above State Significant Development Application. The application as it stands should be rejected. When I moved into the area it was St Gregory's, a small primary school of 40-60 students but after Malek Fahd School took over it has grown since then. Whilst the school has an existing right of use with reference to this site, the proposed dramatic increase of student enrolment is not in keeping with the intention of R2 zoning, nor with residential expectations for this local area. Compared with the Greenacre Campus which is located around business development and local centre zoning. This is not like similar local schools, such as Rouse Hill Anglican which predates surrounding residential development. Finally the majority of students at Malek Fahd travel from significantly out of area and are by and large not residents of Beaumont Hills.
With this in mind these are the key areas of my concern.
NON-COMPLIANCE
The land on which the school is build is zoned R2 Low Density Residential. Under the 'State Environmental Planning Policy Amendment (Bella Vista and Kellyville Transport Oriented Development Precincts) 2024 (Height of Building Map)' the maximum allowable height for our area is 10m. The proposal of a 21m tall prayer hall is in fragrant contradiction to this rule, and should be rejected immediately. Council's LEP states "The height of a building on any land is not to exceed the maximum height shown for the land on the Height of Buildings Map" and does not provide avenue for exception.
TRAFFIC AND PARKING IMPACT
At present, the streets around Malek Fahd are a disaster at school pick up and drop off times. They are busy, often at a standstill, and are unsafe for emergency vehicles etc. The Traffic and Parking Assessment (appendix 9) suggests that this will be mitigated by providing pick up and drop off services on site, being accommodated into the underground car park. However, the Design Report (appendix 5) makes clear that the underground drop off and pick up area will only accommodate 35 cars. The idea that a school's enrolment can increase to 1340 students and 124 staff from 704 and 41 staff, and only provide 35 spots for drop off and pick up, whilst simultaneously lowering the traffic and parking issues on the streets is illogical. This proposal for drop off and pick up is implying a solution for the issues that I already endure during these times, which will not happen and will only increase in greater volume should this extension be approved. The primary issue at present is people parking on surrounding side streets, blocking driveway access and disregarding road rules, especially at pick up and drop off times. I believe this will not change with the provision of these extra underground spaces. Our local streets are narrow, and when this sort of parking is happening, street access currently is difficult enough as it is without having a doubling of enrolment.
VISUAL IMPACT
The most concerning change to visual impact is the 21m tall prayer hall which would dominate the landscape for the surrounding area. The tower is more than double the approved height limit and the proposal's own Visual Impact Assessment (appendix 8) shows this in its photomontage looking south from Honeyeater Crescent. I also note that there is no photomontage from the East of the block, where (owing to the proposed soccer field and open space) the prayer hall would be most visible. In the photomontage looking NW across Mungerie Rd, the exact spot has been chosen such that the prayer hall is obscured behind the tallest trees on site. Going another 10m up the road would show the prayer hall to be obvious. Finally the prayer hall would be blindingly obvious for residents not at ground level (eg. looking from a 2-storey balcony). I feel that these are deceptive measures taken by the planners to make the prayer hall seem less of an inappropriate sight. Even without the prayer hall the development takes the form of a 'tabletop development' with nearly the entire site being taken up by 2 or 3 storey buildings. Where at present, the school is a smattering of buildings with clear sight lines, the new design resembles more so a block that obscures horizon views from every direction especially with the properties which are on the perimetre of the school such as Honeyeater Crescent. This tabletop development has a disastrous effect on the visual impact for surrounding residents, and is not consistent with the overall density or character that is typically associated with R2 zoning of Beaumont Hills. Ultimately the suggestion in the EIS that the proposed development improves the amenity of the built environment is not acceptable. This development will not improve the amenity of the built environment.
SOCIAL IMPACT
The Social Impact Assessment (appendix 24) in the report where the opinions of the planners are the least cognizant with the opinions of local residents. The conclusion of the assessment in section 6.4.2 suggest that, owing to the "potential community uses" of the site and the opportunities for "enhanced engagement" ... and "community interaction" the development will have a "high positive social impact". This is not the experience of those living in the community. The current spaces of the school are not available to the local residents and it is highly unlikely this would change post development. The school as it currently operates does not enhance community engagement or interaction, and there is no reason to suggest that an expansion to the school would do this especially with the presents of security guards. The change to the way of life of the local area including changes to the community's (quoting from the report) "composition, character, cohesion and function, and sense of place". The concerns of residents, while recognised in the report, are cast aside without further discussion. This point requires a thorough objective examination by HillPDA Consulting and the proposal should not be granted consent until this occurs.
ACOUSTIC ASSESSMENT
I am not anti-development with regards to the ongoing noise associated with a school which is to be expected with children playing at lunch times etc at a usual amount of noise. However, quoting from page 51 "The location and design of the Public Address/Bell system has not been undertaken at this stage". Consent must not be allowed until this work is carried out particularly with reference to the on-site minaret. This is of particular concern from an acoustic perspective. It is assumed that there will be a speaker at the top of the minaret, broadcasting the Adhan especially as in the documents reference 5.1/2023 Stage 5 Development it is labelled as a mosque. Until the design of this speaker is known and specification is provided as the the extent of its use (ie.,during school times/days only or outside of school times/days, the acoustic assessment must be considered incomplete and a decision cannot be made.
CONSTRUCTION
I fully understand that there is expected to be noise/traffic/dust issues etc. during construction, however, a 6 year construction period seems excessive and would cause disruption beyond what could be considered normal. Referring back to existing traffic issues.
USE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL DAY
Simple put, we can find no evidence in the report to suggest the site (especially the Prayer Hall/Mosque) will be in use on weekends and in school holidays, effectively functioning as a normal mosque. Until this is determined, I cannot come to a proper conclusion on several aspects of the site. My thoughts are that this is a school for school purposes only. This information needs to be provided to Beaumont Hills Residence before development consent is granted. It needs to be transparent.
Name Withheld
Object
BEAUMONT HILLS , New South Wales
Message
Currently traffic conditions cannot cope with current roads, and it is exceptionally difficult to get out onto Mungerie Rd off Guardian Ave and parents do not allow traffic in Mungerie and it causes a lot of frustration at peak times.
Also, the houses that back onto the school grounds will lose their privacy and devalue their properties with the multi storey buildings - will there be compensation?
Additionally, this school is no different to the International School off Samantha Riley Dr - The vast majority of the parents drive and the overflow from the school pick ups and drop offs onto Samantha Riely causes a lot of frustration. How will this be addressed at Makel Fahd?
There are already 3 large and busy schools within 500m and single lane Withers Road at peak times is not coping as it is.
Is there a reason why the school cannot locate further west where a lot more lad is available and would not encroach on the Neighbours privacy.
We did not buy into this estate for something like this to be allowed and we are totally against the multi storey developments.
Perihan Salam
Support
THE PONDS , New South Wales
Message
The Muslim population is expanding in the Hills districs. The schools all over the area are already overpacked. In the Hills, Blacktown and norwest area we have some of the most populated schools in NSW. My son used to sit on the floor at one of the public schools during year 6 not getting the education he deserves. Every school has the right the expand if this is for our kid's benefit. Expanding a school is much better than expanding residential blocks.
Bernard Ballantyne
Object
Castle Hill , New South Wales
Message
RE: MALEK FAHD ISLAMIC SCHOOL EXPANSION PROPOSAL, BEAUMONT HILLS, NSW
APPLICATION NO. SSD-56264716

We are the owners of the property at 23 Rebellion Circuit, Beaumont Hills, NSW. Our property is located on the northern boundary of the proposed Malek Fahd Islamic School Expansion Proposal. The expansion proposal places new two and three level buildings bordering and adjacent to our property.

We OBJECT to the proposed development.

The existing Malek Fahd School is located in a quiet residential area. The proposed development doubles the present 350 student numbers to approximately 700. The School Expansion includes the construction of a number two level buildings close to the boundary of our property as well as numerous other properties located on Mungerie Road, Rebellion Circuit, Honey Eater Crescent and Ben Place. Additionally a new service road is planned to run along our boundary. The development includes a three story prayer hall which may operate outside normal school hours. The close proximity of the proposed School Expansion to residences will adversely impact the quiet enjoyment of the existing residents and is likely to negatively affect the value of adjacent properties. Specifically we comment as follows:

Noise and Air Quality:

Expansion of the School from 350 to 700 pupils, buildings constructed virtually on our boundary, the service road on our boundary fence, will significantly increase noise impacting our property and nearby residences.

During the construction period, which is scheduled to take several years, will be a “nightmare” for residents, with noise pollution, traffic and air quality issues during construction and subsequently in the operation of the school.

Overlooking & Shading:

The height of the proposed buildings on the northern boundary are proposed to be up to 9.5 metres from ground level. We are concerned there will be increased shading of our property affecting light, particularly during the winter months. Overlook of our property will also adversely impact our privacy.

Traffic:

The proposed development is surrounded by quiet suburban streets. The school expansion will result in traffic in the area increasing as some students are transported from outside the area by bus and car. Whilst the proposal includes a car park for 147 vehicles, a school with 700 students, plus 60 staff and teachers’, will result in increased traffic congestion and safety as well as parking on surrounding residential streets.

It should be noted that local traffic congestion around school drop off and pick-up times are already problematic exacerbated by a number of large schools within 1,000 metres of the proposed Malek Fahd School, including:

- Ironbark Ridge Public School (873 students);
- Rouse Hill High School (1,217 students);
- Our Lady of the Angels Catholic School (566 students);
- First Steps Learning Academy Child Care.

Summary:

In summary we believe this development is incompatible with the surrounding residences. We do not believe the residents have been adequately considered and the development, in our opinion, will impact on the quiet enjoyment and infringes on the rights of residents. We can reasonably assume that the value of our property will be adversely affected should this development proceed.

While the Applicant claims Community consultation has been taken by HillPDA, we have not been approached or consulted. As a resident who borders the proposed development this is misleading.

We consider the site is not suitable for the further development and the Applicant should be encouraged to seek a more appropriate location that does not impinge on the well being of the local residents and the adverse impacts their properties and lifestyle.

Bernard & Joan Ballantyne
23 Rebellion Circuit, Beaumont Hills.
7th February 2025
Maha Elmasry
Support
NORTH KELLYVILLE , New South Wales
Message
The school needs to be bigger and include more facilities
Rahilah LTD
Support
SCHOFIELDS , New South Wales
Message
Rahilah LTD is a community organisation based in The Hills Shire Council, representing hundreds of local residents. We recognise the vital role that Malek Fahd Islamic School plays in serving our community and fully support their request for expansion. Many Muslim students are unable to secure a place in local Islamic schools, which creates significant challenges for parents. As a result, they are often forced to travel long distances to schools outside the area, placing a considerable burden on them.

Your support and approval of this important project for our community would be greatly appreciated.
Name Withheld
Object
CHATSWOOD , New South Wales
Message
Key Concerns:
Overbearing Scale and Impact on Sunlight:
The proposed high-rise building, with its excessive height, will significantly overshadow surrounding properties, severely impacting natural light access and privacy for residents.
Visual Intrusion:
The design of the building is incompatible with the existing low-rise residential character of the area, creating a visually jarring and disruptive presence on the streetscape.
Increased Traffic Congestion:
The additional residents from this high-rise development will undoubtedly put further strain on existing traffic infrastructure, leading to increased congestion and parking difficulties on our streets.
Negative Impact on Amenities:
The proposed development could potentially overwhelm local amenities such as parks, schools, and shops, impacting their usability for current residents.
Potential Environmental Concerns:
Concerns regarding potential impacts on air quality and increased noise pollution due to increased traffic and construction activities.
Request for Consideration:
I urge the planning department to carefully reconsider this application and explore alternative development options that better align with the existing neighborhood character and the needs of residents.
I would welcome the opportunity to discuss my concerns further and provide additional information as needed.
Name Withheld
Object
BEAUMONT HILLS , New South Wales
Message
It is important to note that the location and development of the the school should be taken into account while considering the infrastructure required to support such a huge expansion.

Malek Fahd is located within a local suburban area. The closest metro stations are Rouse Hill (2.5 km away) and Kellyville (3.8 km away), with no direct access to an arterial road. Instead, it is linked to the already congested Withers Road.

Additionally, several schools are located within 1 km of Malek Fahd. These include Beaumont Hills Public (on Parkway Drive, which exceeded its 2024 cap by 20 students) then Lady of the Angels Primary School, Rouse Hill High (which exceeded its 2024 cap by 367 students), and Ironbark Ridge (which exceeded its 2024 cap by 497 students), all of which are situated on Withers Road.

The issue here is the lack of planning and infrastructure in the surrounding area. The influx of students and its subsequent impact on the local community are significant concerns.

Looking at the proposed plans for Malek Fahd on the government planning website, if the middle island on the road was to remain this would mean traffic would be entering from Withers Road. This setup could cause traffic to back up down Mungerie Road (which already happens). Additionally, cars traveling down Mungerie Road towards the Withers Road roundabout will have to turn around, entering an already congested one-lane roundabout, further exacerbating the issue (which already happens).

It will create chaos and make it impossible to get in or out of the estate at school times..it's bad enough already. It needs significant investment in roads, public transport at school times to avoid any inconvenience to residents around the area.
Name Withheld
Support
RIVERSTONE , New South Wales
Message
Dear,
I am in support for the project. As a father of 4 kids and an advocate for their future, I believe that this project is necessary and critical for the continued growth and success of both the school and the surrounding area.

Our community underwent significant growth in recent years which brings the need for expanded educational resources. In recent years,it is became obvious that current facilities are no longer sufficient to meet the needs of the growing student population.
The proposed expansion would provide additional classrooms, updated facilities, and enhanced learning spaces, which are critical for the continued academic success of our children.
The expansion will not only benefit students but also provide economic and social advantages to the community. With an expanded facility, the school will be able to offer more programs, extracurricular activities, and support services, which will better prepare our students for success in higher education and the workforce. Additionally, this project will create jobs and contribute to the local economy through construction and subsequent operations on the short term.
I have seen similar schools such as the Anglican College applying similar expansions to cater for increased students without experiencing intimidation from the community members, that’s why I believe Malek Fahd is entitled to the same treatment from the Hills Shire Council.
I urge you to support this important expansion project. It is an opportunity for us to provide our children with the resources they need to succeed while ensuring that Malek Fahd remains a cornerstone of our community for years to come.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to your support in making this project a reality.

Sincerely
Mostafa Taha
Support
North Kellyville , New South Wales
Message
This school this very important for the muslim community that are loving the country and contribute to its success
The school nurtures values that the entire society will benefit from
Expansion will contribute to have better candidates that will help Australia to flourish in the future
David Cooper
Object
NORTH KELLYVILLE , New South Wales
Message
I don't have a commentary to pass on the actual development itself within the school, I understand the need to increase school capacity across the growing Hills area and support the schools intentions. I do object to the traffic report and associated existing issues with road infrastructure in the vicinity of the school, and that the current infrastructure is already unsustainable with no near term resolution. This is the main impact on myself as a local resident of North Kellyville.

The traffic report fails to provide adequate detail on the data collections, and indicates that the current nearby roads have no issues with accommodating an increased load of traffic. The traffic reports fails to specify on which dates the data was collected, and fails to indicate in which times in AM/PM that the data was collected. This is critical context given the purpose of the application is to double school numbers, impacting specifically on times between 7:30-9:00am and 2:30-4:30pm.

Withers Road is currently a single lane each way, with an intersection roundabout with Mungerie Road, which is a primary chokepoint on the road. There are significant chokepoints as well at Commercial Road intersection, with extended queues of congestion in all directions during school periods. This impacts on both private vehicles movements and public transport. While Hills Shire Council will indicate that the road is "planned" for an upgrade, that "plan" has been theoretical for many years now with no commitments to upgrade. Currently in the AM period, from 8:00-9:00am, traffic is built up westbound on Withers Road, from the Mungerie Road intersection beyond Smalls Creek, and at times, backed up into and beyond Barry Road, Hezlett Road, a distance of 1.3km. In the PM period, traffic can be built up eastbound on Withers Road from the Mungerie Road intesection to Rouse Hill High School. This does not appear to be adequately reflected upon in the traffic report. (Dashcam footage supporting this traffic can be provided)

The traffic report cites in the AM period that there are 45 cars that undertake a 270 degree u-turn, on Mungerie Road north bound and exiting Mungerie Road south bound. This is a high level of cars undertaking a u-turn comparatively to a normal roundabout, with the cars being attendees of the school. based upon the schools recommendations that parents undertake this route. The school recommends this approach, as in 2023 Mungerie Road was modified to prevent northbound traffic from turning right into the school entrance, instead, cars will travel northbound and make a u-turn at Mungerie Road roundabout to approach the school southbound.

The traffic report however cites that "Future AM" period will not see any increase in u-turns using the roundabout. Existing AM report cites 45 u-turns, while the Future AM report also cites 45 u-turns. This is difficult to believe that the appropriate modelling has been undertaken, given the traffic increase planned for the school. The same data assumptions exist in the PM report as well. So considering the above, the traffic report indicates a 0% increase on u-Turns.

Additionally the Future AM period only cites an increase of 34 vehicles turning right into Mungerie Road from Withers Road eastbound (a 23% increase). They cite an increase of 17 cars westbound on Withers Road, turning into Mungerie Road (14.6% increase).

Considering the above, the traffic report indicates that left bound movement into the school will increase by 170 vehicles, or 86.2%. It is very difficult to believe, that the majority vehicle movements +112 cars, will route via the missing data of Guardian Avenue, a very lengthy detour and complex approach to the school. There appears to be an extremely flawed assumption that the majority of vehicles will approach from the Bramptom Drive (130% increase), an approach that requires significant navigation through the suburbs of Beaumont Hills.

Withers Road / Mungerie Road proposed intersection upgrade when last cited 5 years ago, proposed a double lane roundabout. Given the increasing school capacity, proximity to 3 other schools and significantly sized sporting venue, this upgrade should be a pre-requirement to be a traffic light controlled intersection. Safe pedestrian movements is required as students of the school are sighted utilising public transport along Withers Road in AM/PM, having to cross through peak hour traffic with only a traffic island. Withers Road also requires the overdue upgrade to 2 lanes each way, and should be a pre-requirement of the school upgrade, or any school upgrade in the vicinity.

Mitigation of traffic could be considered as well through the installation of a roundabout at Mungerie Road / Guardian Avenue to enable appropriate traffic movements away from Withers Road, similar to the roundabout at Ironbark Ridge Public School. Alternatively, the school could consider in their planning to have an appropriately size roundabout at the school entrance, provided that the plan significantly improves on movement within the school itself and traffic on the public road will not be significantly hindered, well, more than it already is.

Thank you for the consideration

Pagination

Project Details

Application Number
SSD-56264716
Assessment Type
State Significant Development
Development Type
Educational establishments
Local Government Areas
The Hills Shire

Contact Planner

Name
Dimitri Gotsis