MOD 2 - The Crescent overpass and active transport links

Many families will be adversely affected by the M4-M5 Link, MOD 2. Easy pedestrian access from Johnson Street and The Crescent to enter Bicentennial Park is very valued by the community; this includes walkers, joggers, families and people with dogs as Bicentennial Park is a large and important resource enjoyed by many. If access requires extended walking over extra unshaded roads and more traffic light stops the pleasure of the walk will be diminished and many will be hot and exhausted before they arrive. This will adversely affect older people, people who push prams, people walking their dogs, young children – currently all of these groups revel in the natural environment of the park.
Other community members travel from other Inner West & nearby suburbs by car or bike to reach Bicentennial Park so consideration to their needs should be considered as well. Easy road access and parking are the basic requirements. These are currently available but the gazetted changes make this access much more difficult.
Please do not put the car above all else. Please aim for people-centred design. Remember that not everyone can or does or wants to drive. Waking is a valuable way to maintain & improve health – physical & mental - as well as a necessary way to ensure the health & happiness of our dogs that many families treasure. Too many sets of traffic light crossings will destroy the amenity of the area. Please design pedestrian access to be safe and direct; exercise is good but not on a noisy, hot and extended overpass.

I write to express my concern regarding the impact the proposed modification will have on how the area will look. I acknowledge the change the area has gone in the last 30 years and how important this area is for connecting traffic in Sydney however the expansion on this area with over ground expansion will deteriorate the area and turn it further into a freeway like feature. There is a need for the government to consider the long term impact in respect to the asthestic implications proceeding with the over ground structure and encourage to consider underground options verses cost of the project.

Dear Director Transport Assessments Planning Services,
Modification Application SSI-7485-Mod-2

I wish to lodge my strong objections to the above project modifications and overpass.
The scale of the overpass is unacceptable, this part of the project was to be underground, the change is not a modification but a completely new project. The overpass and multiple traffic lights and lack of pedestrian friendly design is not acceptable and is unsafe especially crossing from Johnson street to the Crescent.
The overpass will obscure the much loved ‘People’s Mural’
The no right turn from Johnson Street into the Crescent will increase traffic, destroying the village feel of Annandale, the quality of life and the enjoyment and use of the area. It will also increase traffic where there are schools and opportunity for speeding in a residential area. This is unsafe.
The increased traffic will also increase pollution.
Locals will be forced onto toll roads. Coming from the peninsula of Balmain will cause more traffic build up and encourage use of the few rat routes that already exist to enter and leave Balmain, bringing more traffic into Balmain as well as Annadale and Leichardt. Traffic will increase on narrow streets and around schools, this is a safety issue.
The massive out of scale overpass should be replaced with a short tunnel (less than 120 metres) at the very least.
The overpass will make it difficult for pedestrian access to the waterfronts, not just locals but also tourists from the cruise ships. The needs of the motorists have been prioritised by this project.
The modification also breaks up the green link, prioritising car owners over pedestrians and cyclists.
The speed with which the established trees have been destroyed is unacceptable. These are being destroyed before this modification has even been ratified and presented for community consultation. The visual impact is already being felt as is the lack of shade. This is a health risk.
The overpass will increase noise in addition to the above to an unacceptable level for residents and anyone using the area.
The way this project was ill planned, pushed through without proper consultation is a disgrace. These modifications are unacceptable.

I am writing in relation to the Modification of the M4- M5 Link, Mod 2 - The Crescent overpass and changes to pedestrian access and infrastructure proposed for North Annandale , Rozelle . I regularly visit this area. I ask that you reintroduce the original plans for the area that involved tunnel rather than the above ground overpass which cuts off the foreshore and creates an ugly structure along the waterfront.

The key concerns are as follows:
The reduced safety and increased risk for pedestrians and cyclists with removed access over the Crescent and the increased traffic along Johnson St
Being required to cross 5 sets of lights at the Crescent to reach the foreshore from Annandale or from the light rail stop at Rozelle Bay
Removal of direct links to the foreshore cutting the community off from the area and from the proposed revitalisation of that entire Bays area
I understand there is no complete Masterplan which is concerning as Urban landscape should be considered as a Master plan rather than in a bitsy manner
Traffic changes that limit movements around the suburbs and create further congestion in the local streets of Annandale , Forest Lodge Glebe, Lilyfield and Rozelle with no planning to deal with these.

My other concern is a visual , aesthetic one - have we learned nothing about the disadvantages and sheer ugliness of putting such a structure (eg Cahill Expressway as one example) along a waterfront which should be opened up to people rather than blocked off.

In the absence of returning to the tunnel as initially proposed which I believe should be considered again I ask the RMS and Project Team to
Reinstate the Greenlink connecting communities and green open space from Rozelle to Bicentennial Park
Relocate and Design pedestrian and cyclist connections that are continuous and safe and direct
Design the modification infrastructure and active links in response to the character of the suburbs , the location of the foreshoere and its potential future development
Provide pedestrian and cyclist paths that maximise people safety and do not force them 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.

Yours Sincerely

Barbara McCann

I am opposing 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 have lived in Rozelle since 1994 and love the area. The village atmosphere, being so close to the city but still in a suburb makes this a unique area.
I am requesting RMS work with the community to explore alternate design options to the proposed new car overpass design and the changed pedestrian and cyclist links. 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. I 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:
● 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.
● Being required to cross five sets of pedestrian lights at The Crescent as my option to reach the foreshore from Annandale or from Rozelle light rail stop.
● 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.
● Urban and landscape design that is being built before a finalised Masterplan for the area.
● 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.
My submission is asking RMS and the Project Team to:
● 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.

Dear Department of Planning,
I object to the proposed overpass on the following grounds:
1. Due to its height the structure will be imposing and dominate the Rozelle Bay foreshore, to the detriment of all the users of the foreshore parklands.
2. The height will cause the traffic noise to carry further that it otherwise would, to the detriment of the residents of Annandale, Rozelle, and surrounds.
Yours sincerely.

Submission attached

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

25th September 2019

Dear Director of Transport Assessments Planning Services,

RE: Application number SSI 7485

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

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

The project seems at odds with the vision laid out in the Transport for NSW Future Strategy 2056. By working with the community to design a feasible option that brings the best elements from the approved EIS design into the modification, I believe we can achieve a win-win solution.

My key concerns with the M4-M5 modification are:

• The removal of vegetation including beautiful trees without a full urban design and landscape plan.
• The aesthetics of the project, having a damaging visual impact on the local area, including obstruction of the mural along the light rail viaduct on the Crescent.
• Urban and landscape design that is being built before a finalised Masterplan for the area.
• 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 ferry wharf and metro station.
• Being required to cross four or five sets of pedestrian lights at The Crescent as my option to reach the foreshore from Annandale or from Rozelle Bay light rail stop
• Significantly reduced safety and increased risk for pedestrians and cyclists with removed access over The Crescent to Bicentennial Park and the increased traffic along Johnston Street.
• Traffic changes that limit movements around the suburb and create further congestion in the local streets of Annandale including Piper Street and Booth Street (either side of my road).
• As learned from foreign cities mistakes in large overpasses and interchanges, divisions in neighbourhoods and communities have ensued
• When it was first proposed that the Rozelle Interchange in the original Westconnex proposal would be entirely underground I thought at least such a hideous monstrosity would be hidden from view, but that also it seemed unfeasible, that no engineering consultancy would wish to touch it, and that it was only a cover to get it through to the next stage with the true intended design to follow after.
• Locals, whether walking or on bike have been deemed an afterthought here, taking the least convenient routes, with likely increased wait times and distance to cross. Their priority is to be reduced below those who wish to pass through the area and leave their pollution behind. This is contrary to best practice urban design.
• Not only is the proposed new pedestrian/cyclist bridge less convenient, but it also puts these at risk users even closer to the unfiltered ventilation stacks for additional exposure to harmful and unnecessary pollution.
• Such works will decrease amenity of the area, discourage people’s access via foot and bike, and only encourage greater car use and congestion in a downward spiral of health and wellbeing.

My request is for RMS and the Project Team to:
• Modify the project to minimise the destruction of local nature and art. 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.
• Reinstate the GreenLink connecting communities and green open space from Rozelle to Bicentennial Park
• Relocate and design pedestrian cyclist connections that are continuous, safe and direct.
• Provide pedestrian and cycle paths that maximise people’s safety and do not force them 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.

Yours Sincerely,
Christopher Horvath

I object to this proposal- application number SSI 7485. RMS have released a modification to the approved design of the M4-M5 link MOD 2.
This design impacts The Crescent in Annandale between Johnston St and the City West
Link.
The modification removes many of the favourable urban design features of the original proposal replacing them with a massive overpass.
Global experience of major toll road construction has demonstrated conclusively that projects like this increase air pollution, encourage more car use, fleece road users with exorbitant tolls and eventually fill the increased road capacity they create.
Change the overpass to a short tunnel
 I oppose the proposal to build an overpass at The Crescent in Annandale.
The plan for an overpass should be replaced by a short (less than 120m) tunnel under the City West Link with slot trench approaches. An underpass provides the best visual and urban outcomes and should allow the retention of the green bridge in a location to best connect the parklands together. This underpass needs to be designed to also facilitate the single pedestrian crossing at Johnston Street.
 The overpass solution is not my preferred outcome but if it is adopted, the bulk and scale must be reduced. One way to do this would be to reduce the allowed speed limit to reduce the curve of the proposal. Lowering the height of the overpass should also be considered.
Maximise pedestrian connectivity including:
 Simplification of the Johnston Street crossing of the Crescent to a single traffic light crossing in the current location on the Northern side of Johnston Street as currently exists.
 Ensuring provision of easy at grade access from Railway parade to the Glebe Foreshore with a direct connection to the simplified Johnston Street/The Crescent intersection.
 Provide for the direct grade separated connection between The Glebe Foreshore and the new Rozelle parklands via the green bridge.
Retain and protect trees adjacent the light rail station as per the EIS consideration
The road design needs be altered to provide protection of mature vegetation including
Sydney blue gums, and Moreton bay figs. These will provide some immediate pedestrian and visual amenity given that most of Buruwan Park will be removed.
Reinstate the right hand turn lane at the Crescent from Johnston Street
This will limit traffic through local Annandale streets to Glebe and key local destinations such as The Tramsheds.
Protect the people’s mural
Careful consideration is needed to protect this much loved local artwork.

My major concerns are expanded in the body of this submission, but the outline of my concerns are the project is:
• ineffective and counterproductive to transport management.
• encouraging carbon emissions.
• a breach of trust with unconsulted changes.
• damaging to local heritage and jarring with the existing built environment.
• impeding pedestrian access to Glebe Foreshore Parks.
• destroying many mature trees including some significant figs.
• removing future prospects of active links to Rozelle.
• creating local traffic congestion by the removal of right turn to The Crescent.
I request that the RMS stop further works and consult with the community to prevent a misaligned outcome that is too costly to fix. Many residents of the Innerwest use the areas impacted by this project for active movement and as commuting corridor for both cycle and foot traffic up to busses at White Bay. Given the growth in housing density, the lack of forethought in public transport, the reduction of private green space and dramatic changes to the population proposed by the Bays Precinct I ask that a master plan for the area be developed and approved by the community before this project is beyond the point of timely alteration.
Inefficacy.
The whole premise of trying to create a new road that will allegedly deliver more throughput than all the other roads is in my opinion foolhardy hubris. Around the world there is evidence that building roads is not a solution to congestion, and by allowing larger volumes of vehicles to be on the road the problem to be solved actually grows.
Carbon.
The current situation where we need to be minimising carbon emissions is altogether ignored by this project. This project will encourage the use of private vehicles over public transport, it is counterproductive and wastes not only money, but crucially time that we need to be spending changing habits, building capacity and evolving our transport solutions. Doing more of the same will mean we end up with more of the same.
Trust.
While unimpressed with the project for many of the reasons stated in this submission the version prior to this amendment was far preferable. For locals this amendment bears almost no resemblance to the former plan, while it will favour road users without significant change. All the cost of the change is borne on the local community. By starting site works before consultation has completed there is an air of inevitability that has disempowered local residents pushing the bounds of any semblance of trust in the governance process.
Heritage and built environment
The mural on The Crescent is a great icon, and a sign of the local spirit. Obscuring and obstructing the mural degrades the local sense of community. The mural is approaching 40 years and has been added to and restored in that time. It is clearly of great significance to the local community and is not purely historical. This plan does not adequately preserve the mural.
The choice to opt for above ground flyovers is completely at odds with the local heritage. The development in the former Gosford Quarries site was done without imposing unsympathetic styles on the adjacent streetfronts. The proposal is an overbearing unsightly development with no concession to the character of the local streets, just blocks from heritage buildings (The Abbey et al).
Access to Glebe Foreshore Parks
With increasing density of housing and reduction of private greenspace, public greenspaces are more important than ever. The arduous barrier created by multiple lighted crossings is unacceptable. It is contrary to the respect and promotion of a pedestrian culture to make an amendment with such an impact on such a highly utilised local facility.
Tree destruction
While those of us with private properties maintain trees with programs of pruning and constant clearing of shed leaves, fruit, branches and seeds, there was no attempt to keep trees within the bounds of safety for the project. Public trees are maintained around powerlines and also to give adequate visibility at intersections. Instead of adopting a position of managing the trees this project has already opted for the wholesale removal of trees which will take decades to return, for some of the more significant figs changes to the local environment may preclude any return. If this project was in part about stimulating jobs, then bringing in workers to manage the trees would have been a win-win. This missed opportunity echoes the lack of forethought this project seems to embody.
Active links
While I dislike the concept of road development before transport development and hence oppose Westconnex philosophically, I concede that transport is not wholly about those in the area but also about those transiting through an area. I was willing to accept the bad with the good prior to this amendment instead of adopting a not-in-my-backyard approach. This amendment removes the major local upside of the project, and precludes any future creation of a viable active-link to Rozelle. Considering the impact that greenspaces have on exercise, physical health, and mental health the restoration of a comparable greenlink to is essential to local acceptance of this project. Robbing the area of any future prospect of integrated active links is failing to develop the local infrastructure and wasting local facilities.
Local traffic.
For many residents of North Annandale the right turn from Johnston street into The Crescent is highly used if not the most common route. Pushing this traffic up Johnston street, which already suffers from cars queuing across intersections, onto the already congested 40km/h speed limited Booth street is not sensible. Booth street already suffers significant traffic delays and as the heart of Annandale Village requires the multiple pedestrian crossings that are already there. There is no prospect of alleviating this congestion, there needs to be a better plan for managing local traffic – one that improves traffic not degrades it.

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 RMS work with the community to explore alternate design options to the proposed new car overpass design and the changed pedestrian and cyclist links. 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. Given that the removal of mature trees and much needed green space has already begun, this is more important than ever.

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 us 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:
● 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.
● 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. This will be the route my kids will need to take as they ride their bikes to high school in Sydney Secondary College - currently they would only need to cross one set of lights. Please keep our kids' safety at the forefront of your decision making.
● 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.
● Urban and landscape design that is being built before a finalised Masterplan for the area.
● 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.
● The proposed ramp leading to the overpass will block the mural on The Crescent which is an important local cultural landmark.

My submission is asking RMS and the Project Team to:
● 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 its potential future development.
● Provide pedestrian and cyclist paths that maximise people safety and do not force them 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

SSI 7485
This modification is at odds with the original promise of the interchange being completely underground. The connection from The Crescent to the City West Link (eastbound) should remain underground.
The worst part of the proposed modification is that it cuts off pedestrian and bike access between Johnston St and the Glebe foreshore. Having so many traffic lights to traverse will make it so unappealing to get across that walkers from Annandale will be effectively cut off from the foreshore.
The second worst part of the proposed modification is that it reduces the feeling of connection between the Glebe foreshore and the new Rozelle Rail Yards by replacing a direct Green Link with a narrow, windy, and longer shared user path bridge.

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 RMS work with the community to explore alternate design options to the proposed new car overpass design and the changed pedestrian and cyclist links. 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. Given that the removal of mature trees and much needed green space has already begun, this is more important than ever.

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 us 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:
● 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.
● 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. This will be the route my kids will need to take as they ride their bikes to high school in Sydney Secondary College - currently they would only need to cross one set of lights. Please keep our kids' safety at the forefront of your decision making.
● 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.
● Urban and landscape design that is being built before a finalised Masterplan for the area.
● 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.
● The proposed ramp leading to the overpass will block the mural on The Crescent which is an important local cultural landmark.

My submission is asking RMS and the Project Team to:
● 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 its potential future development.
● Provide pedestrian and cyclist paths that maximise people safety and do not force them 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

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.

As a local resident, I have significant concerns over the proposed modification in design and I request that the RMS revert to the previous proposal for the interchange. Specifically my concerns in relation to the modified proposal are:
● The significantly reduced safety and increased risk for pedestrians and cyclists with removed access over The Crescent to Bicentennial Park
● The visual impact of the proposal to the surrounding area and Bicentennial Park that is used extensively by our community and its families
● Increased traffic along Johnson Street, the Crescent, Ross Street and Bridge Road. All of which contain a significant number of residential homes, schools and day care centres and are important pedestrian and cyclist thoroughfares
● Increased air and noise pollution for the aforementioned streets and roads that are home to many families and house our children throughout various schools and daycare centres
● The removal of the proposed green link which significantly decreases the community amenity that was to be enjoyed as a trade off for hosting a significant infrastructure project and the housing of four large polluting exhaust stacks near our homes and schools
● The building of a Los Angeles style highway which will act as a further dividing boundary and limit movement between the Glebe, Annandale and Rozelle communities having a detrimental economic impact on local businesses

I request that the RMS:
● Remove the inclusion of an overpass as a component of the plans for the Rozelle Interchange
● Consider the impact of its plans on local traffic flows, particularly in relation to the already busy local streets of Ross Street, Bridge Road, Johnston Street and the Crescent that act as important centres for our community and our kid's education
● Consider the impact on surface air and noise pollution in residential areas
● Reinstate the GreenLink that acted as a safe and direct connection for our communities as well as much needed green open space to offset the impact of the development
● Respect the design character of our suburbs and the potential for the area's future development
● Help to integrate, not divide the communities of Glebe, Annandale and Rozelle to increase foot traffic and support economic activity within local businesses

Thank you for your consideration.

Yours sincerely
Nick Cowling

I strongly object to these modifications to the proposal. I am an Annandale resident and these modifications will have a further detrimental on my community. The loss of the greenlink, the changes to the Johnston Street intersection and the massive out of place overpass proposed for the Crescent are simply unacceptable. It is difficult to believe how the the matters that have apparently informed this latest modification could not have been anticipated in the earlier design and as apart of the that consultation process. This smacks of development by stealth with total disregard for the local community. The impacts of the above measure cannot be understated in this residential area. The proposal effectively places a significant barrier between the prospective parklands on the Rozelle railyards (assuming they don't disappear in yet another modification) and the bayside parklands that the community, in thsi densely populated area are so heavily dependent upon. The substitute access way is simply not what was promised and neither was it envisaged that therewould be an overpass dissecting the area. The previous version of the proposal was old heavily to the public on the greenway, the parklands and the reduction in impact on the area. This MOD2 proposal completely undermines that and makes a mockery of the basis on which it was granted approval. This modification should not be approved.

My comments relate to MOD 2 - The Crescent Overpass and active transport links. Although I state that "I Object to the project", it would be more pertinent to say that I object to certain aspects of the project, rather than the project as a whole. I confirm that I reside in Annandale, NSW 2038, not far from the proposed Interchange.

I accept that there is a need for improved methods of allowing traffic to flow between the Inner West, the Central Business District, and other areas. However, it is my hope that certain features of MOD2 will be modified to prevent, or at least mitigate, certain deleterious effects on pedestrians, nearby homes, and the general amenity of the north Annandale area. In particular, I state the following:

(1) THE CRESCENT OVERPASS
The plans indicate that this elevated roadway will be at the same level as Rozelle Bay light rail station and the light rail track. This will mean that traffic will be at the same level as the station and almost at the same level as residences that face the light rail (on the lower side of Bayview Crescent) and the residences on the higher side of Bayview Crescent.
The Overpass will have a large and constant flow of vehicles. This will create a large amount of noise and air pollution, as well as the visual distraction of many vehicles moving along the Overpass (as there will be effective line of sight from the level of the light rail station, and Bayview Crescent, towards the Overpass). It will also affect views across to Rozelle Bay, Rozelle and toward the central business district.
I ask that consideration be given to lowering the Overpass, so that it is significantly below the level of the light rail station and the light rail itself. This would mitigate the noise, visual and air pollution caused by traffic using the Overpass.
Whether or not the Overpass is lowered, I ask that some kind of sound and visual barrier be inserted so that noise and visual pollution are mitigated.

(2) WALL AT ROZELLE BAY LIGHT RAIL STATION
I also note that, according to the plans, there will be a wall on the Overpass side of Rozelle Bay light rail station (although it will not be high enough to block out views of passing traffic on the Overpass). I ask that, whatever kind of wall is built, that it have features that make it less visually jarring and stark. For example, bas-relief designs, sculptures, mosaics and other decorations could be built into the wall to make it more attractive. (Similar designs have been used on freeway walls throughout Sydney, and on some platforms at light rail stations).
Also, I ask that some kind of vegetation be installed in front of that wall (eg. garden beds for shrubs and trees), and along the proposed pedestrian ramp, to make them more attractive. (I note that gardens have been installed on the High Line walkway, a disused rail line in New York City, and have made them appealing.)

(3) PEDESTRIAN ACCESS FROM ANNANDALE TO BICENTENNIAL PARK
I note that pedestrians and cyclists will need to cross at least two roads to walk from Annandale to Bicentennial Park. This will be unappealing and inconvenient. It may also be unsafe, given the volume of traffic, particularly for families with prams and small children, the elderly, and people who use wheelchairs.

I ask that a pedestrian/cyclist ramp be installed that would enable users to walk or ride easily from the Annandale side of the Crescent directly into Bicentennial Park. This would be similar to the ramp that will go from Rozelle Bay light rail station into the new Rozelle Railway Yards Park. I also ask that the ramp have an easy gradient, and be wide enough so that it easily accommodates pedestrians and cyclists, preferably in *segregated* lanes so that they do not get in each other's way ( a common problem on many shared walkways/cycleways in Sydney).
A measure like this would be relatively simple to build, and easy to use, and would make Bicentennial Park far easier to access from Annandale.

(4) GENERAL VISUAL IMPACT AT THE INTERCHANGE - APPROACHES TO MITIGATE IT
I strongly support the proposal to retain the Crescent Mural, and ask that measures be taken to protect the Mural from damage, obstruction and degradation.
I also generally recommend that features be included throughout the Interchange (eg. on walls, pylons, undersides of the Overpass, etc) that soften the stark sight of concrete and bitumen. For example, interesting visual features like mosaics, bas-reliefs and murals can be installed on various structures to give a more attractive appearance to the Interchange. Preferably these features would refer to local landmarks, events, history and so on (similar to the platform decorations that exist at many light rail stops throughout Sydney).

Finally, I strong urge RMS to plant trees, vines, bushes and other vegetation (eg. flowers) where possible in and around the Interchange. It has been distressing to see many fine trees being cut down in recent weeks at Burawan Park and along the City Westlink, and it creates a stark and barren appearance that is quite confronting. Similarly, if you walk across the pedestrian bridges from East Darling Harbour to the Sydney CBD, you will seek a number of ugly and bedraggled trees lining the Western Distributor. I therefore urge RMS to plant attractive and hardy trees, such as eucalypts, acacias, grevilleas (and so on) in and around the Interchange to create a more natural and welcoming appearance. Measures like this can make a big visual impact for relatively little cost and effort.

In conclusion, I appreciate the opportunity to make this submission regarding MOD2- The Crescent Overpass, and I urge Planning NSW and RMS to take it into account (along with the many other submissions that residents and other interested parties will make).
[Submitter's name not published]
Annandale NSW 2038
24 September 2019

Pease find submission attached.

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 RMS work with the community to explore alternate design options to the proposed new car overpass design and the changed pedestrian and cyclist links. 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 us 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:
● 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 Johnston Street.
● 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.
● 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.
● Urban and landscape design that is being built before a finalised Masterplan for the area.
● 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.

My submission is asking RMS and the Project Team to:
● 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 them 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

A solution to the above could include:
1. Widening the Crescent between Johnston Street and the City West Link to allow for 4 lanes exiting The Crescent onto the City West Link towards the city (and one away from the city). This would double the amount of cars able to exit the Crescent at each light change should significantly ease congestion; and
2. Widening the City West Link by one city bound lane between the Crescent and James Craig Road, to allow 4 lanes to enter from the Crescent;
3. Retaining only the existing 2 entry lanes to Annandale between the City West Link and Johnston Street, so as not to encourage a thoroughfare through Annandale. This would reduce the risk of pedestrian accidents on Johnstone Street from increased traffic flow, particularly around the 5 primary Schools and day care centres on Johnstone Street;
4. Reinstatement of the initially planned 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; and
5. Maintain the Crescent Mural from being obscured by an overpass.

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 RMS work with the community to explore alternate design options to the proposed new car overpass design and the changed pedestrian and cyclist links. 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 us 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:
● 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 Johnston Street.
● 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.
● 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.
● Urban and landscape design that is being built before a finalised Masterplan for the area.
● 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.

My submission is asking RMS and the Project Team to:
● 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 them 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

A solution to the above could include:
1. Widening the Crescent between Johnston Street and the City West Link to allow for 4 lanes exiting The Crescent onto the City West Link towards the city (and one away from the city). This would double the amount of cars able to exit the Crescent at each light change should significantly ease congestion; and
2. Widening the City West Link by one city bound lane between the Crescent and James Craig Road, to allow 4 lanes to enter from the Crescent;
3. Retaining only the existing 2 entry lanes to Annandale between the City West Link and Johnston Street, so as not to encourage a thoroughfare through Annandale. This would reduce the risk of pedestrian accidents on Johnstone Street from increased traffic flow, particularly around the 5 primary Schools and day care centres on Johnstone Street;
4. Reinstatement of the initially planned 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; and
5. Maintain the Crescent Mural from being obscured by an overpass.

I would like to formally object to the planned overpass connecting the Crescent to the City West Link at Rozelle Bay. The original plans have been altered to remove a green strip connecting Rozelle to the foreshore, and also now includes the 8m high overpass along the Crescent.
Both of these changes will reduce the accessibility to the parkland by residents in Annandale and Rozelle. Currently there is one set of traffic lights to cross from Annandale and enter the foreshore parks. Under the new proposal there will be 4 seperate sets of traffic lights to cross in order to reach the park. This is really awkward, especially for the large groups of local Primary school children who frequently go on excursions to the park, but also dangerous for any adult with multiple children, or children riding bicycles, people with several children plus a dog trying to get across to the park and so on.
Furthermore, the proposed overpass is going to be incredibly ugly. This is not an invalid argument! This is our home, where we spend our time and our lives. We are a clever and wealthy society and we can do better than this incredibly lazy design that completely dismisses the wishes and quality of life of the local residents.
The section of West Connex at Rozelle is going to be incredibly ugly, noisy, polluted and expansive as it is. Please reconsider these changes for the sake of the people who have to live with them. We really do deserve better.

Kind regards,
Local resident