MOD 2 - The Crescent overpass and active transport links

I support improvements to active Transport and safety for vulnerable road users. Additionally, I support emissions reductions and a safe Environment.

I agree with the Submission made by Bike Leichhardt (Mr Bob Moore).

This plan completely ignores the conditions of consent given for this project and threatens to impose even more on the landscape and liveability of our local area.
I’m concerned that this Los Angeles style overpass will:
• Have an unacceptable and unnecessary visual impact, and obstruct a significant local mural;
• Make it more difficult for pedestrians to access Jubilee Park from Johnston St Annandale and the Rozelle Goods Yards in Lilyfield;
• Destroy over 70 trees including the large, mature fig trees at Buruwan Park; and
• Fail to solve Sydney's traffic congestion problem.

Mrs Amanda Campbell
89 Denison Street
Rozelle NSW 2039

17 September 2019

Director, Transport Assessments Planning Services
Department of Planning, Industry and Environment
GPO Box 39
Sydney, NSW 2001

Application: SSI 7485

Dear Director Transport Assessments Planning Services

I write regarding the proposed modification to M4-M5 Link, Mod 2 The Crescent overpass and changes to pedestrian infrastructure in North Annandale, Rozelle and Rozelle Bay Foreshore area.

I request the RMS work with the community to explore alternate design options to the proposed new car overpass design and the changed pedestrian and cyclist links.

As a cyclist and daily user of the current cycle path I was impressed with the forward thinking of the EIS GreenLink. I am seeking the reinstatement of the safe, direct access from the approved EIS GreenLink to create a continuous green open space connection from the Rozelle Rail yards and Annandale to the foreshore. The GreenLink was more than just a walk way - it put people central to the design, maximising safety, and providing much needed accessible open space for the community now and into the future Bays Precinct design.

I am requesting RMS put people back into the plan – we want you to reinstate your own vision as laid out in Transport for NSW Future Strategy 2056. Work with the community to design a feasible option that brings the best elements from the approved EIS design into the modification.

My key concerns with the M4-M5 Modification are:

o The significantly reduced safety and increased risk for pedestrians and cyclists with removed access over The Crescent to Bicentennial Park and the increased traffic along Johnson Street.
o Being required to cross five sets of pedestrian lights at The Crescent as my option to reach the foreshore from Annandale or from Rozelle Bay light rail stop.
o Removal of direct active links to the foreshore, cutting the community off from the area and the proposed revitalisation of the entire Bays Precinct, including linking the Light Rail and Bus stops to a Ferry wharf and Metro station.
o Urban and landscape design that is being built before a finalised Masterplan for the area.
o Traffic changes that limit movements around the suburb and create further congestion in the local streets of Annandale, Forest Lodge, Glebe, Lilyfield and Rozelle with no planning to deal with these.

Alongside these issues my other concerns include:

POOR CONSULTATION
I’m very concerned with the lack of community consultation around this modification which is a complete redesign of this intersection and was not communicated as even being considered.
This underhand type of behaviour only exacerbates the rift between the RMS and the community.
MAKING THE MOST OF WHAT WE’VE GOT
As a Rozelle resident of over 20 years myself, my family and friends are all frequent users of our local green spaces. The open spaces are of huge importance to us and the wellbeing of the people that live in this busy city. Sydney is lucky to be on the harbour and we should be doing everything we can to sensitively design infrastructure around this asset — not compromise access through short sighted design. The proposed overpass has usurped the plan and everything has been changed to fit around it. You need to change the priorities and put people back as a
priority stakeholder in this plan.

PRACTICING GOOD DESIGN
I understand that there are constraints in every design but what I’m seeing in the MOD2 reports is table after table of optimisation for cars and roads and a huge number of disadvantages for pedestrians, cyclists and the internationally recognised asset that is the Sydney Harbour. A good design would optimise around unique and valuable assets (Harbour/Foreshore) and balance the needs of all stakeholders with special attention paid to those most at risk (pedestrians, cyclists).

HONOURING PROMISES MADE TO FUTURE GENERATIONS
The Approved Environmental Impact Statement detailed several principals which have been completely abandoned by this modification:

o Connect and provide for communities. The concept offers a parkland destination that works to stitch together previously separated communities by providing a range of social infrastructure at a central, easily accessible location.
MOD 2 fails this principal
o Enhance green links. The concept reactivates closed-off land through new green spaces and links. These links strategically establish a new green “interaction” connecting a series of significant yet fragmented [future and existing] green spaces in and around White Bay, Rozelle Bay, Rozelle, Balmain, Glebe and Annandale.
MOD 2 removes direct access
o Respond to the local character. Respecting and maintaining the unique heritage, industrial character and topography of the Rozelle Rail Yards through interpretation.
MOD 2 obstructs a historically significant local mural.
o Revitalise streets for equality of mobility. New public spaces and much-needed universally accessible links establish entirely new “public streets” and enhance the surrounding neighbourhood.

My submission is asking RMS and the Project Team to:

o Reinstate the GreenLink connecting communities and green open space from Rozelle to Bicentennial Park
o Relocate and design pedestrian and cyclist connections that are continuous, safe and direct.
o Design the modification infrastructure and active links in response to the character of the suburbs, the location of the foreshore and its potential future development.
o Provide pedestrian and cyclist paths that maximise people safety and do not force them onto busier streets, unsafe concrete plazas and caged walkways.
o Integrate active and direct connections to all active transport – including the future Metro West and Foreshore Ferry Wharf

In conclusion:

As a local resident I was impressed with the EIS GreenLink and thought for once community, government and contractors has reached a point of agreement that was considerate of all parties.
Increasing accessibility for pedestrian and cyclists in a manner that promotes a healthier lifestyle and safeguarding open spaces for leisure, sports and general health and wellbeing should be at the forefront.

MOD 2 is all about the car not the local community. Please reconsider.


Yours Sincerely

Amanda Campbell
89 Denison Street
Rozelle NSW 2039

I have provided all my comments in the two page document attached. I would like my name to be withheld for privacy. Thank you.

In general I object to the West Connex project. Any project that results in more cars on our roads with all of the operational and contruction impacts the project results in is short-sighted and retrograde.
In particular I am objecting to Mod 2. I find it incredibly cynical of the Government to propose a retrograde project only to make a submission for a modification which would make the project even worse from an environmental and community point of view in order to make what was originally promised palatable.
I urge the RMS to reinstate the original promise for direct access from Annandale to the foreshore, Rozelle and Lilyfield to the foreshore, shared user pathways into th eBays Precinct Masterplan, and connectivity from the light rail to any future Metro West and ferry wharf.
What is being proposed in Mod 2 is very significant and should be a modification to the EIS with all with all that entails in terms of impact assessment and stakeholder and community engagement.

Director, Transport Assessments Planning Services
Department of Planning, Industry and Environment
GPO Box 39 Sydney,
NSW 2001

Application: SSI 7485

Dear Director Transport Assessments Planning Services,

I write regarding the proposed modification to M4-M5 Link, Mod 2 The Crescent overpass and changes to pedestrian infrastructure in North Annandale, Rozelle and Rozelle Bay Foreshore area.

The proposed modification:
● Increases the traffic to Johnston St without improving the pedestrian crossing in front of Annandale North Public School, which seriously risks the lives of our children attending this school.
● Significantly reduces safety for families and pedestrians with removed access over The Crescent to Bicentennial Park.
● Removes direct active links to the foreshore, cutting the community off from the area and the proposed revitalisation of the entire Bays Precinct, including linking the Light Rail and Bus stops to a Ferry wharf and Metro station.
● Traffic changes that limit movements around the suburb and create further congestion in the local streets of Annandale, Forest Lodge, Glebe, Lilyfield and Rozelle with no planning to deal with these.

In addition, the modification increases the number of roads to cross by 5 pedestrian crossings, without allowing enough space at each crossing for a group of families, or a class of students to stand together. No alternative assisted pedestrian crossings have been factored in along The Crescent to allow the community to cross this busy road in other locations.

My submission is requesting the RMS:
● Significantly improve the pedestrian crossing in front of Annandale North Public School by:
○ widening the footpath in front of and opposite the school,
○ new fencing along the median strip and footpath,
○ improved signage around the school, and
○ relocation of the traffic light buttons for pedestrians closer to the actual crossing.
● Reinstate the GreenLink connecting communities and green open space from Rozelle to Bicentennial Park.
● Relocate and design pedestrian and cyclist connections that are continuous, safe and direct.
● Design the modification infrastructure and active links in response to the character of the suburbs, the location of the foreshore and it’s potential future development.
● Provide pedestrian and cyclist paths that maximise people safety and do not force us onto busier streets, unsafe concrete plazas and caged walkways.
● Integrate active and direct connections to all active transport – including the future Metro West and Foreshore Ferry Wharf.


Regards,

I object to the overpass being built near the Crescent. For the following reasons:
1. VISUAL IMPACT
1.1. The original proposal that was agreed was a tunnel, which, apart from its construction phase would have had little impact on the area.
1.2. The proposed “modifications” are so significant that the proposed overpass will dominate and destroy the local landscape.
1.3. This is in an area that has over two hundred years of history. It is listed as a heritage conservation area. The Inner West Council states on its website, “Little change can be expected other than modest additions and discrete alterations”. (https://www.innerwest.nsw.gov.au/develop/planning-controls/heritage-and-conservation/heritage-conservation-areas. Accessed 11/9/19). In view of these guidelines to residents, how can a massive overpass be justified?
1.4. The modifications are so different from the original proposals that they fly in the face of conditions of the original consent.
1.5. There will be a massive, and purely negative, visual impact on a large number of residents in Annandale.
2. NOISE POLLUTION
2.1. The prevailing winds in Sydney are Westerly;
2.2. There will be significant noise pollution to persons and property in a large area, predominantly but not limited to, the west of the proposed overpass. This will adversely affect Annandale.
3. RELOCATION OF THE GREEN LINK
3.1. Consent for the original proposal (by way of a tunnel) was conditional upon the “Green Link” connecting the Rozelle Goods Yard to Bicentennial Park.
3.2. The proposal seeks to “re-locate” this link, thereby removing the direct connection.
3.3. Anyone wishing to walk or cycle from the Rozelle Goods Yard to Bicentennial Park will now need to walk for an estimated minimum of 20 minutes, alongside a raised motorway overpass, beside the traffic on the crescent, eventually crossing four pedestrian crossings. This is farcical and dangerous. It shows no consideration of residents, pedestrians and cyclists.
4. DESTRUCTION OF BURUWAN PARK
4.1. As Annandale residents, one of the things that makes our suburb so desirable is its parks and established trees. They are used by families throughout the year, they link us to the two hundred year history of the suburb and they provide us with a green barrier between the City West Link and residences.
4.2. Our Council and State governments normally support measures to combat global warming: it seems extraordinary that at a time when the whole world is decrying the destruction of trees in the Amazon, a serious proposal is made that would cause the loss of well over 70 trees, some of which are beautiful, mature fig trees, and which cannot be compensated for with new planting.
4.3. The creeping destruction of Sydney’s green spaces, little by little, risks the loss of amenities that are essential for a city’s health.
5. REMOVAL OF RIGHT TURN OUT OF JOHNSTON ST INTO THE CRESCENT
5.1. This is crucial for local residents and removing this right turn will mean increased traffic through local streets.
5.2. Currently, children play on local streets. The removal of the right turn into the Crescent will cause an increase in traffic in local streets. The proposals, should they proceed, will either force them inside or endanger them. In addition, there will be an increase in noise and emissions in local streets.
6. DESTRUCTION OF COMMUNITY
6.1. Annandale and its environs has a strong sense of community, it is in many respects like a village. This is due in part to its quiet atmosphere. The construction of an inherently noisy overpass will have a significant adverse effect on the area.
6.2. One of the reasons people love living in Annandale is this sense of community and the easy access to parks and water.
6.3. People greet each other in the street, businesses know the local residents, it is safe for children to play outside and everyday residents throng to Jubilee and Bicentennial Parks.
6.4. It is a healthy, friendly and supportive community with values the government should be fostering. We believe the proposed modifications will change this detrimentally in every way.
6.5. I understand that the reason the modification is sought is a financial one. However, a proper cost/benefit analysis that fails to take into account the above listed objections will give a flawed result. It is only by taking into account the intangible benefits that will be destroyed by an overpass, that a proper accounting can be done. The loss of property values and lifestyle of thousands of people in Annandale and its environs seems to have been omitted from the calculations.
7. For the reasons detailed above we oppose the proposed modification from a tunnel to an overpass, and we look forward to your reply.
As per the above, I obkect to the project.
Thanks,
Emma

1. For cyclists and pedestrians, access going north from Johnson Street across the Crescent to Jubilee Park is a significant issue. Under this design it appears the only way for cyclists/pedestrians heading east along the Pedestrian and Cycling link to reach Jubilee park will be to pass three sets of traffic light across Johnson Street, then two across the two arms of the Crescent streets. This will cut off the park from access north.

2. The proposal also seems to block access for walkers cyclists going north along the Crescent to Railway Parade. This is currently possible under the Annandale overpass.

3. There is no way for cyclists heading south on the Pedestrian and Cycling link to then continue down the Crescent. I do that a lot and a lot of others do too.

4. I think the overpass will bring too many cars to the area, speed up traffic flows which is dangerous for cyclists and undermine the aspect of the bays.

The proposed modification to the overpass is not best practice and will not provide an adequate “ green link” from the “ park” at Rozelle bay( replete with smoke stacks) and the foreshore. It appears to make it harder to access the foreshore from Annandale where we live. It overdevelops the roads and has already resulted in the loss of hundreds of trees; many very old and established. Lack of proper consultation has resulted in substantial local unhappiness and discontent. Locals are being ignored and the encroachment on these old established suburbs is disgraceful.

Sir / Madam
I object to the proposed changes to the Rozelle Interchange for the following reasons:
1. Access to Bicentennial Park will be reduced significantly for local residents and commuters, impacting their safety along the route.
2. There were be 5 sets of pedestrian traffic lights to cross from Rozelle Bay Light Rail Stop to reach the foreshore
3. Increased congestion overflowing into surrounding streets of Forest Lodge, Annandale, Rozelle, Glebe and Lilyfield with limited planning
4. The original Greenlink plan provided for much more much-needed green space that could be used for sporting fields and recreation
5. Removal of direct active linkages to the foreshore cutting locals off from the foreshore and the proposed revitalisation of the entire Bays Precinct.

Please reconsider this amendment to the original proposal. We were promised more green space a revitalisation of this disused eyesore, instead it appears we will be receiving a Los Angeles-style spaghetti junction that provides little amenity to the city's residents.

Director, Transport Assessments Planning Services
Department of Planning, Industry and Environment
GPO Box 39 Sydney,
NSW 2001

Application: SSI 7485

Dear Director Transport Assessments Planning Services,

I write regarding the proposed modification to M4-M5 Link, Mod 2 The Crescent overpass and changes to pedestrian infrastructure in North Annandale, Rozelle and Rozelle Bay Foreshore area.

The proposed modification:
● Increases the traffic to Johnston St without improving the pedestrian crossing in front of Annandale North Public School, which seriously risks the lives of our children attending this school.
● Significantly reduces safety for families and pedestrians with removed access over The Crescent to Bicentennial Park.
● Removes direct active links to the foreshore, cutting the community off from the area and the proposed revitalisation of the entire Bays Precinct, including linking the Light Rail and Bus stops to a Ferry wharf and Metro station.
● Traffic changes that limit movements around the suburb and create further congestion in the local streets of Annandale, Forest Lodge, Glebe, Lilyfield and Rozelle with no planning to deal with these.

In addition, the modification increases the number of roads to cross by 5 pedestrian crossings, without allowing enough space at each crossing for a group of families, or a class of students to stand together. No alternative assisted pedestrian crossings have been factored in along The Crescent to allow the community to cross this busy road in other locations.

My submission is requesting the RMS:
● Significantly improve the pedestrian crossing in front of Annandale North Public School by:
○ widening the footpath in front of and opposite the school,
○ new fencing along the median strip and footpath,
○ improved signage around the school, and
○ relocation of the traffic light buttons for pedestrians closer to the actual crossing.
● Reinstate the GreenLink connecting communities and green open space from Rozelle to Bicentennial Park.
● Relocate and design pedestrian and cyclist connections that are continuous, safe and direct.
● Design the modification infrastructure and active links in response to the character of the suburbs, the location of the foreshore and it’s potential future development.
● Provide pedestrian and cyclist paths that maximise people safety and do not force us onto busier streets, unsafe concrete plazas and caged walkways.
● Integrate active and direct connections to all active transport – including the future Metro West and Foreshore Ferry Wharf.


Regards,

Sarah Williams Hart
111 View St, Annandale NSW 2038
[email protected]

We live with our two young children within view of the proposed M4-M5 modification, on the road that links into the Crescent overpass. We use Jubilee and Bicentennial Park lands every day for recreation, our children attend the local primary school and preschool and we work within Annandale.

This modification will impact directly on us and our neighbours specifically in the forms of increased traffic, light pollution, noise pollution and a degradation of the natural and urban historical environments within which we live sympathetically.

We request the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment ensure that the RMS and WestConnex contractors work harder to build a more sustainable responsible road and green space development.

Please refer to our attached objection letter that details our concerns and reasons why we believe this modification should not be given approval.

Please see attached for my letter in regards to my concerns regarding the changes to the Cresent overpass

I strongly object to the proposed changes to the West Connex Rozelle Interchange (application number SSI-7485-Mod-2). The original plan was to build an underground underpass at The crescent and City West Link intersection. This would at least minimise the already disruptive and dreadful impact of the West-Connex works in this area of Rozelle Bay. The proposed over-pass is a a horrendous eye-sore. The visual impact would destroy the beauty and the ambience of the Glebe Foreshore and Jubilee parks. Both are very popular amenities, much used by residents. The proposed work would also result in the destruction of many established trees, essentially obliterating Buruwan Park, a habitat for birds, the protected Brush-tailed possums. In addition, a mural on the Light Rail embankment at The Crescent, which has been part of the Annandale landscape for, at least, the 23 years I have been a resident here would be significantly compromised.

Importantly, neither the NSW Government, nor the contractor John Holland have provided evidence of how the elevated overpass, would be a better choice that the originally proposed underground underpass in terms of enhancing traffic flow and alleviating congestion.

Director, Transport Assessments Planning Services
Department of Planning, Industry and Environment
GPO Box 39 Sydney,
NSW 2001

Application: SSI 7485

Dear Director Transport Assessments Planning Services,

I write regarding the proposed modification to M4-M5 Link, Mod 2 The Crescent overpass and changes to pedestrian infrastructure in North Annandale, Rozelle and Rozelle Bay Foreshore area.

The proposed modification:
● Increases the traffic to Johnston St without improving the pedestrian crossing in front of Annandale North Public School, which seriously risks the lives of our children attending this school.
● Significantly reduces safety for families and pedestrians with removed access over The Crescent to Bicentennial Park.
● Removes direct active links to the foreshore, cutting the community off from the area and the proposed revitalisation of the entire Bays Precinct, including linking the Light Rail and Bus stops to a Ferry wharf and Metro station.
● Traffic changes that limit movements around the suburb and create further congestion in the local streets of Annandale, Forest Lodge, Glebe, Lilyfield and Rozelle with no planning to deal with these.

In addition, the modification increases the number of roads to cross by 5 pedestrian crossings, without allowing enough space at each crossing for a group of families, or a class of students to stand together. No alternative assisted pedestrian crossings have been factored in along The Crescent to allow the community to cross this busy road in other locations.

My submission is requesting the RMS:
● Significantly improve the pedestrian crossing in front of Annandale North Public School by:
○ widening the footpath in front of and opposite the school,
○ new fencing along the median strip and footpath,
○ improved signage around the school, and
○ relocation of the traffic light buttons for pedestrians closer to the actual crossing.
● Reinstate the GreenLink connecting communities and green open space from Rozelle to Bicentennial Park.
● Relocate and design pedestrian and cyclist connections that are continuous, safe and direct.
● Design the modification infrastructure and active links in response to the character of the suburbs, the location of the foreshore and it’s potential future development.
● Provide pedestrian and cyclist paths that maximise people safety and do not force us onto busier streets, unsafe concrete plazas and caged walkways.
● Integrate active and direct connections to all active transport – including the future Metro West and Foreshore Ferry Wharf.


Regards,
KH

I object

1. VISUAL IMPACT
1.1. The original proposal that was agreed was a tunnel, which, apart from its construction phase would have had little impact on the area.
1.2. The proposed “modifications” are so significant that the proposed overpass will dominate and destroy the local landscape.
1.3. This is in an area that has over two hundred years of history. It is listed as a heritage conservation area. The Inner West Council states on its website, “Little change can be expected other than modest additions and discrete alterations”. (https://www.innerwest.nsw.gov.au/develop/planning-controls/heritage-and-conservation/heritage-conservation-areas. Accessed 11/9/19). In view of these guidelines to residents, how can a massive overpass be justified?
1.4. The modifications are so different from the original proposals that they fly in the face of conditions of the original consent.
1.5. There will be a massive, and purely negative, visual impact on a large number of residents in Annandale.
2. NOISE POLLUTION
2.1. The prevailing winds in Sydney are Westerly;
2.2. There will be significant noise pollution to persons and property in a large area, predominantly but not limited to, the west of the proposed overpass. This will adversely affect Annandale.
3. RELOCATION OF THE GREEN LINK
3.1. Consent for the original proposal (by way of a tunnel) was conditional upon the “Green Link” connecting the Rozelle Goods Yard to Bicentennial Park.
3.2. The proposal seeks to “re-locate” this link, thereby removing the direct connection.
3.3. Anyone wishing to walk or cycle from the Rozelle Goods Yard to Bicentennial Park will now need to walk for an estimated minimum of 20 minutes, alongside a raised motorway overpass, beside the traffic on the crescent, eventually crossing four pedestrian crossings. This is farcical and dangerous. It shows no consideration of residents, pedestrians and cyclists.
4. DESTRUCTION OF BURUWAN PARK
4.1. One of the things that makes our suburb so desirable is its parks and established trees. They are used by families throughout the year, they link us to the two hundred year history of the suburb and they provide us with a green barrier between the City West Link and residences.
4.2. Our Council and State governments normally support measures to combat global warming: it seems extraordinary that at a time when the whole world is decrying the destruction of trees in the Amazon, a serious proposal is made that would cause the loss of well over 70 trees, some of which are beautiful, mature fig trees, and which cannot be compensated for with new planting.
4.3. The creeping destruction of Sydney’s green spaces, little by little, risks the loss of amenities that are essential for a city’s health.
5. REMOVAL OF RIGHT TURN OUT OF JOHNSTON ST INTO THE CRESCENT
5.1. This is crucial for local residents and removing this right turn will mean increased traffic through local streets.
5.2. Currently, children play on local streets. The removal of the right turn into the Crescent will cause an increase in traffic in local streets. The proposals, should they proceed, will either force them inside or endanger them. In addition, there will be an increase in noise and emissions in local streets.
6. DESTRUCTION OF COMMUNITY
6.1. Annandale and its environs has a strong sense of community, it is in many respects like a village. This is due in part to its quiet atmosphere. The construction of an inherently noisy overpass will have a significant adverse effect on the area.
6.2. One of the reasons people love living in Annandale is this sense of community and the easy access to parks and water.
6.3. People greet each other in the street, businesses know the local residents, it is safe for children to play outside and everyday residents throng to Jubilee and Bicentennial Parks.
6.4. It is a healthy, friendly and supportive community with values the government should be fostering. We believe the proposed modifications will change this detrimentally in every way.
6.5. We understand that the reason the modification is sought is a financial one. However, a proper cost/benefit analysis that fails to take into account the above listed objections will give a flawed result. It is only by taking into account the intangible benefits that will be destroyed by an overpass, that a proper accounting can be done. The loss of property values and lifestyle of thousands of people in Annandale and its environs seems to have been omitted from the calculations.

For the reasons detailed above we oppose the proposed modification from a tunnel to an overpass, and we look forward to your reply.

As a young family that has just moved to the area, I look forward to raising my children in Rozelle and its surrounds, and open green space, safe cycle ways and access to the foreshore are all parts of the new community that we highly value. Please consider this submission seriously and reinstate the GreenLink connecting communities and green space from Rozelle to Bicentennial Park. Please do not proceed with newly proposed modification to M4-M5 Link, Mod 2 The Crescent overpass.