Residential Flat Buildings at 85-91 Thomas Street, Parramatta

To the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure,

I am writing to register my formal objection to the proposed development at 85-91 Thomas Street, Parramatta (SSD-81300458).

My primary concerns relate to the severe and prolonged impact the construction and operation of this oversized development will have on the traffic, safety, and amenity of our local neighbourhood.

1. Unacceptable Construction Traffic on a Narrow Local Road

Thomas Street is a relatively narrow residential street and a key access road for our area. The developer's own Traffic Impact Assessment (Appendix Q) confirms the construction phase will generate up to 30 heavy truck trips per day.

This volume of heavy vehicle traffic is completely inappropriate for our street. It will inevitably lead to:

Increased traffic congestion and long delays for residents.

Significant safety risks for pedestrians, especially children and the elderly.

Constant noise and vibration from trucks braking, accelerating, and navigating the street.

The developer's traffic plan fails to adequately address how these severe impacts on our daily lives will be managed.

2. Construction Worker Parking Will Overwhelm Our Streets

The developer's Traffic Impact Assessment also states that there will be no on-site parking provided for construction workers during the crucial early stages of the project.

This will force dozens of workers to park their private vehicles on our local streets every single day. On-street parking is already limited, and this will make it impossible for residents and their visitors to find parking near their homes. This is an unfair burden to place on the community for the entire duration of the construction.

3. Prolonged Construction Period
Based on the developer's own timeline in the Traffic Impact Assessment, the construction program is estimated to last for 74 weeks, which is almost 18 months. This is an incredibly long period for our community to endure the daily disruption, noise, and traffic chaos from this project.

To minimise this prolonged disruption, I strongly suggest that the Department mandate the use of prefabricated building components to significantly speed up the construction process and reduce the on-site impact on the neighbourhood.

4. Increased Operational Traffic from 188 New Cars

Once completed, the development will add 188 resident car spaces to our local area. This will result in hundreds of additional car movements on Thomas Street every day. The developer's own traffic data shows that the key intersection of Macarthur Street and Thomas Street is already "operating near capacity". Adding this volume of new traffic will push it towards failure, creating permanent congestion for our community.

Conclusion
The construction and operation of this development will have an unacceptable and lasting negative impact on the traffic, safety, and amenity of our neighbourhood. The developer's plans are inadequate and place an unfair burden on the existing community.

I urge the Department to refuse this application.

Objection to State Significant Development Application SSD-81300458
Address: 85-91 Thomas Street, Parramatta
Submitted by: Paulo Lai, Resident at 77 Thomas Street, Parramatta
A PDF version with correct formatting is attached

Introduction
I am writing to register my formal objection to the State Significant Development Application SSD-81300458 for the proposed development at 85-91 Thomas Street, Parramatta.

My objection is based on the following key grounds:
1. The proposal uses the Housing Delivery Authority (HDA) pathway to approve a development of a scale that has already been rejected by planning authorities on this exact site.
2. The application is fundamentally undermined by a pattern of inconsistencies, contradictions, and misleading claims, questioning the credibility of the entire assessment process.
3. The proposal represents a gross exceedance of the site's key planning controls and creates an unfair and inequitable planning outcome for the street.
4. The developer's own reports confirm the development will have severe and unacceptable amenity impacts on the community, which are then unacceptably downplayed.
5. The justification of a "housing crisis" is unfounded and misapplied in this specific context.

This proposal is not in the public interest. It seeks to overturn a well-established local planning consensus for a site that has been repeatedly shown to be unsuitable for this scale of development, and I urge the Department to refuse the application.

1. Primary Objection: The HDA Pathway is Being Misused to Approve a Previously Rejected Development
* The central argument against this proposal is its clear planning history. The HDA pathway, a state-led fast-track process, is being misused to force through a development that has already been deemed unacceptable on its planning merits.
* A Clear History of Refusal: Planning authorities have already considered and refused a 22-metre (7-storey) development on this exact site (Planning Proposal PP-2020-2819). The official reasons for refusal were that it would create an "incongruous and undesirable future-built form" and have an "unacceptable" visual impact on local character and amenity.
* Current Proposal is More Extreme: The current proposal for a 9-storey, 29.26-metre building is substantially larger and more impactful than what has already been explicitly rejected by planning authorities. It is illogical to now approve a larger development that will have even greater negative impacts.
2. Objection: The Application is Unreliable and Lacks Credibility
The pattern of errors, contradictions, and questionable practices across multiple key documents makes it impossible for the Department to have confidence in the application's findings. This suggests the entire assessment is flawed.
Direct Factual Contradictions:
Biodiversity: The developer claims in their Rezoning Report that the site has "no biodiversity constraints," which is directly refuted by their own BDAR Waiver reports that acknowledge a Threatened Ecological Community (Coastal Saltmarsh) and potential impacts from overshadowing.
Administrative Errors: The application is riddled with basic errors, including referencing the wrong SSD application number in the ESD Report.
3. Objection: The Proposal Creates an Unfair and Inequitable Planning Outcome
This "spot rezoning" is contrary to the principle of orderly and economic planning. It creates an unfair and inequitable outcome by granting a significant development advantage to a single site, while all other properties on Thomas Street remain subject to the established local planning controls. This approach undermines the strategic intent of the Parramatta LEP and will lead to an uncoordinated and undesirable outcome for the entire streetscape.
4. Objection: The Developer's Reports Confirm Severe Amenity Impacts Which Are Then Unacceptably Downplayed
A recurring and concerning pattern throughout the application is the developer's tendency to downplay or dismiss significant negative impacts that are identified by their own technical experts.
Construction Traffic Impact: The Traffic Impact Assessment (Appendix Q) estimates up to 30 heavy truck trips per day during peak construction. Funnelling this high volume of heavy vehicle traffic onto Thomas Street - a narrow local road and key access route - will inevitably worsen congestion, create safety issues, and generate significant noise and vibration for residents.
Operational Traffic Impact: The developer's own traffic data shows that the key intersection of Macarthur Street and Thomas Street is already operating at Level of Service (LOS) D ("Operating near capacity"). Their conclusion that the traffic from 126 new apartments "will not result in adverse traffic or parking impacts" is directly contradicted by their own data.
Construction Noise Impact: The Acoustic Assessment (Appendix AA) explicitly states that construction noise will exceed the EPA's "Highly Noise Impacted" threshold of 75dB(A), which indicates a high risk of "strong community reaction". Despite this, the proposed mitigation measures are generic and reactive, not proactive.
Environmental Impact (Overshadowing): The developer admits the proposal will cause "slightly more" overshadowing on the adjacent Coastal Saltmarsh, a Threatened Ecological Community, but unacceptably downplays this environmental harm as "negligible".
5. Objection: The "Housing Crisis" Justification is Unfounded for this Site
The developer's primary justification for the project's excessive scale is the need to address the housing crisis. This argument is weak and misapplied in this context.
Parramatta is Exceeding Housing Targets: The Parramatta local government area is already exceeding the housing supply targets set by the state government. There is no strategic justification for overriding local planning controls on this sensitive site when housing is being delivered at scale elsewhere in the LGA.
More Suitable Locations Exist: Parramatta has numerous areas, particularly in and around the CBD, that are already zoned and planned for high-density development. It is not in the public interest to force an oversized development into an established low-to-mid-rise residential street when more appropriate locations are available.
Objection 6: The Developer's Justifications are Flawed and Contradictory
The arguments used to support the proposal are weak and often based on misleading information.
"Double-Dipping" on Public Benefit: The dedication of the RE1 land at the rear of the site was the "public benefit" used to justify the variations for the previous, much smaller approved DA. It cannot be used again as a bargaining chip to justify this new, vastly larger proposal.
Contradictory Traffic Claims: The developer argues for excessive parking (39 more spaces than required) because the area is "car dependant" (a finding from their own previous expert report). This directly contradicts the narrative of a transit-oriented development and will only induce more car ownership and worsen local traffic.
Contradictory Biodiversity Claims: The Concurrent Rezoning Report claims the site has "no biodiversity constraints," while the BDAR Waiver reports acknowledge the presence of a Threatened Ecological Community (Coastal Saltmarsh) and the potential for negative impacts from increased overshadowing. The BDAR Waiver also used the overshadowing analysis from a much smaller 11m tall building, not the 29m+ towers proposed here.
Dismissive Attitude to Community: The Community Engagement report acknowledges residents' concerns about scale, traffic, and amenity, but the responses are dismissive and repeatedly use the "housing crisis" as a blanket justification to ignore legitimate and specific planning issues.
Kerbside Waste Collection: The proposal for kerbside waste collection for 126 units is inappropriate for a development of this scale. It will cause significant traffic disruption and amenity impacts on Thomas Street on collection days. On-site collection within the basement is the standard and expected practice for a modern development of this size.

Message
As a lifelong resident of Parramatta, born and raised in this vibrant and evolving city, I am writing to express my strong support for the proposed development of residential flat buildings at 85-91 Thomas Street, Parramatta. Having witnessed Parramatta’s transformation over the years—from a bustling suburban hub to a thriving metropolitan center—I believe this development is a critical step toward addressing the pressing housing crisis in our region, enhancing the livability of our community, and ensuring Parramatta continues to grow as an inclusive, dynamic, and sustainable city. Below, I outline the reasons for my support, focusing on how this development will contribute to alleviating the housing crisis, provide tangible benefits to the suburb and its residents, and align with Parramatta’s vision for a prosperous future.

Parramatta, like much of Greater Sydney, is grappling with a severe housing shortage that has made it increasingly difficult for residents—particularly young people, families, and essential workers—to afford to live in the area. The housing crisis has driven up property prices and rental costs, pushing many long-term residents out of the community they call home and creating barriers for new residents seeking to contribute to Parramatta’s growth. The proposed residential flat buildings at 85-91 Thomas Street represent a meaningful opportunity to increase housing supply in a strategic location, helping to ease these pressures and create a more accessible housing market.

This development will add a significant number of new dwellings to Parramatta’s housing stock, directly addressing the shortage of homes. By providing a mix of apartment types—potentially including one-, two-, and three-bedroom units—the project can cater to a diverse range of residents, from young professionals and students to families and retirees. This diversity is essential to ensuring that Parramatta remains a place where people at different stages of life can find suitable housing. Furthermore, increasing the supply of homes in a high-demand area like Parramatta can help stabilize rental and purchase prices over time, making it easier for residents to stay in the community and for newcomers to establish roots.
The location of 85-91 Thomas Street is particularly well-suited for high-density residential development. Situated in close proximity to Parramatta’s central business district, public transport hubs, and key amenities, the site maximizes accessibility and convenience, reducing reliance on private vehicles and supporting sustainable urban growth. By concentrating new housing in areas with existing infrastructure, this development aligns with state and local government strategies, such as the Greater Sydney Region Plan and the City of Parramatta’s Community Strategic Plan, which emphasize the need for increased housing near transport nodes to accommodate population growth.

The housing crisis is not just a matter of supply but also of equity and opportunity. Many residents, including myself, have seen friends and family members struggle to find affordable housing in Parramatta, forcing them to relocate to outer suburbs or beyond. This displacement erodes the social fabric of our community and undermines the sense of belonging that has long defined Parramatta. The approval of residential flat buildings at 85-91 Thomas Street will help retain residents by providing more housing options within the city, ensuring that people can continue to live close to their workplaces, schools, and community networks.

Moreover, this development has the potential to incorporate affordable housing components, which would be a significant step toward addressing the needs of lower- and middle-income households. I urge the developers and decision-makers to consider including a percentage of affordable housing units in the project, as this would directly support essential workers—such as teachers, nurses, and emergency service personnel—who are vital to our community but increasingly priced out of the local market. Such a commitment would align with the City of Parramatta’s goal of fostering an inclusive community where everyone has access to safe, affordable, and well-located housing.

In addition to addressing affordability, the development can contribute to the housing crisis by promoting sustainable urban living. High-density residential buildings, when designed thoughtfully, can reduce per-capita environmental impacts by encouraging walkability, public transport use, and shared amenities. The proximity of 85-91 Thomas Street to Parramatta Station, bus services, and the future Parramatta Light Rail ensures that residents will have easy access to sustainable transport options, reducing traffic congestion and greenhouse gas emissions. This aligns with the broader goal of creating a climate-resilient city, which is critical as we face the challenges of population growth and environmental change.

The approval of residential flat buildings at 85-91 Thomas Street will bring a wide range of benefits to Parramatta and its residents, enhancing the suburb’s livability, economic vitality, and community cohesion. Below, I highlight some of the key advantages this development will deliver:

The influx of new residents to the Thomas Street development will stimulate the local economy by increasing demand for goods and services in Parramatta’s commercial precincts. Local businesses, including cafes, restaurants, retail shops, and service providers along Church Street and in Westfield Parramatta, will benefit from a larger customer base. This economic activity will create jobs and support the continued revitalization of Parramatta as a major economic hub in Western Sydney. As someone who has frequented these local businesses for years, I can attest to the importance of a thriving population to sustain and grow our commercial landscape.

The development presents an opportunity to invest in community infrastructure that benefits both new and existing residents. For example, developers could contribute to public realm improvements, such as upgraded streetscapes, green spaces, or pedestrian pathways, as part of the project’s approval conditions. These enhancements would improve the quality of life for everyone in the area, creating safer and more inviting public spaces. Additionally, the increased population density may justify further investment in schools, healthcare facilities, and recreational amenities, ensuring that Parramatta remains a well-serviced community.

Parramatta is known for its rich cultural diversity and vibrant community life, from the annual Parramasala festival to the bustling markets and events along the Parramatta River. The addition of new residents through this development will further enrich this cultural tapestry, bringing new perspectives, talents, and energy to our community. By fostering a diverse and inclusive population, the project will help maintain Parramatta’s reputation as a welcoming and dynamic place to live.

A well-designed residential development at 85-91 Thomas Street has the potential to enhance the visual and functional appeal of the area. Modern architectural standards, combined with landscaping and public art, can create an attractive and cohesive urban environment. As a resident, I have seen how thoughtful developments, such as those in the Parramatta Square precinct, have transformed previously underutilized spaces into vibrant community hubs. I encourage the developers to prioritize high-quality design that complements Parramatta’s character and contributes to a sense of pride among residents.

The development aligns with Parramatta’s vision as a central city within the Greater Sydney metropolitan area. By increasing residential density in a well-connected location, the project supports the efficient use of land and infrastructure, reducing urban sprawl and preserving green spaces on the city’s outskirts. This approach ensures that Parramatta can accommodate its growing population without compromising its environmental or cultural assets.


Having grown up in Parramatta, I have a deep connection to this city and its people. I remember playing in local parks, attending school in the area, and watching Parramatta evolve from a suburban center to a thriving urban hub. Over the years, I have seen the challenges of rapid growth, including the strain on housing and infrastructure, but I have also seen the incredible potential for Parramatta to lead the way in creating a sustainable and inclusive future. The proposed development at 85-91 Thomas Street is an opportunity to build on this potential, ensuring that Parramatta remains a place where people can live, work, and thrive.
As a resident, I am acutely aware of the housing struggles faced by my peers and neighbors. Friends who grew up here have had to move away due to rising costs, and young families are finding it harder to settle in the area. Approving this development will help keep our community together by providing much-needed housing options, allowing people to stay connected to their roots and contribute to Parramatta’s future. It will also attract new residents who will bring fresh energy and ideas, further enriching our city.

In conclusion, I wholeheartedly support the approval of the residential flat buildings at 85-91 Thomas Street, Parramatta. This development is a critical step toward addressing our housing crisis, providing diverse and accessible housing options.

It will cause traffic jams. Thanks.

1. This development will result in the deterioration of local traffic.
2. This development will result in the deterioration of local street parking.
3. This development is too high, more than twice as much as the surrounding building and will create privacy issue from overlooking.
4. This development is inconsistent with the local surroundings in height element
5. This development creates overshadowing towards its neighbouring properties.
6. This development blocks the view sharing opportunities for the parramatta CBD and the parramatta river from its surrounding neighbouring properties.
7. This development proposal is inconsistent with the local community lifestyle. It creates a large amount of boarding room units whilst the rest of the local community is homeowners and residential families.
8. This development may result in flood to the neighbouring properties due to the drastic increase in impervious areas.
9. This development will result in damage of the economic value of the local community as it will drive down the rental income and property values of the local residents with a sudden release of a large amount of vacant units.
10. This proposal did not address social impacts

I STRONGLY OBJECT to the proposed development on the following grounds:
1. Non-Compliance with Existing Zoning and Planning Controls
The proposal seeks to override the Parramatta Local Environmental Plan (LEP) by introducing a site-specific clause to permit a building up to 9 storeys (30 meters) in height and a floor space ratio of 2.25:1. This significantly exceeds the current planning controls for the area. These controls were created to preserve the character and livability of low-density residential neighbourhoods.

A previous application (DA/312/2021), which proposed a smaller 7-storey boarding house, was rejected by Parramatta Council because it did not align with the existing built form and character. There is no reasonable basis for approving an even larger and more intrusive proposal now.

2. Amenity Impacts: Privacy, Overshadowing, View Loss and Devaluation of Property
This development will cause severe damage to our privacy, quality of life, and property value of neighbouring residents.
The proposed 9-storey structure will overlook our balcony and interior living spaces. This means a complete loss of privacy. Our personal lives will be exposed to dozens of units with a clear line of sight into our home and garden. WE can never leave our blinds open in our living areas which will push our building and home into darkness through most of the day.

Natural light will be blocked for most of the day. Shadowing will affect both living areas and outdoor spaces. The loss of sunlight during winter and morning hours will affect health, wellbeing, and energy costs.

The scale and bulk of the building are excessive for a residential area. Instead of greenery and open sky, residents will now face a concrete wall towering above them.

These changes will directly reduce the value of our property. Buyers will not pay the same price for a home that is dark, boxed in, and completely overlooked. This damages our financial security, equity, and ability to sell or refinance in future.

The proposal ignores basic planning principles that protect residential amenity. This is not just a visual or aesthetic problem. It is a fundamental loss of livability and financial value.

3. Overdevelopment and Lack of Supporting Infrastructure
This is a case of overdevelopment that the current infrastructure cannot support.

The addition of 126 apartments and 188 car spaces will increase congestion in an already narrow and heavily parked street.

Noise, pollution, and traffic will rise. This affects safety for children, pedestrians, and cyclists.

No schools, parks, or community services are being added to offset the strain on the neighbourhood.

Waste management and emergency vehicle access will be compromised.

The local area cannot absorb this density without long-term impacts on safety, access, and day-to-day life.

4. Lack of Transparency and Attempt to Override Community Feedback
This development is being pushed as a State Significant Development (SSD) to bypass local controls and fast-track approval. This process limits public objections and prevents residents from voicing their concerns through traditional methods like email. It feels deliberate and designed to reduce community input.

This site has already been subject to community consultation and council review. The previous proposal was rejected. We now face an even larger proposal being pushed through with less transparency and less opportunity to challenge it.

This is not fair planning. It undermines public trust and devalues the community’s voice.

5. Environmental and Neighbourhood Character Impacts
The proposal will cause permanent change to the neighbourhood’s landscape and ecosystem.

Trees and green buffer zones will be removed or blocked out.

Increased hard surfaces and basement excavation may affect drainage and runoff.

The scale of the building will overwhelm the streetscape, which is currently defined by detached homes, trees, and open space.

There is no place for a 9-storey structure in this location. It is visually and environmentally incompatible.

Requested Action:
I respectfully ask that the Department:

* Reject the application in its current form
* Protect the existing height and floor space restrictions under the Parramatta LEP
* Honour the community’s past feedback and the council’s earlier rejection
* Reopen proper channels for public comment and consultation, including email access and in-person hearings

This project is not in line with ssd guidelines.

The site is not suitable for high rise building
Area is single home and small.apartments blocks
Traffic safety for the area, already an extremely congested intersection with James ruse drive and Thomas Street.over 2.1km to Parramatta trains station
This does not meet ssd requirements

I STRONGLY OBJECT to the proposed development on the following grounds:
1. Non-Compliance with Existing Zoning and Planning Controls
The proposal seeks to override the Parramatta Local Environmental Plan (LEP) by introducing a site-specific clause to permit a building up to 9 storeys (30 meters) in height and a floor space ratio of 2.25:1. This significantly exceeds the current planning controls for the area. These controls were created to preserve the character and livability of low-density residential neighbourhoods.

A previous application (DA/312/2021), which proposed a smaller 7-storey boarding house, was rejected by Parramatta Council because it did not align with the existing built form and character. There is no reasonable basis for approving an even larger and more intrusive proposal now.

2. Amenity Impacts: Privacy, Overshadowing, View Loss and Devaluation of Property
This development will cause severe damage to our privacy, quality of life, and property value of neighbouring residents.
The proposed 9-storey structure will overlook our balcony and interior living spaces. This means a complete loss of privacy. Our personal lives will be exposed to dozens of units with a clear line of sight into our home and garden. WE can never leave our blinds open in our living areas which will push our building and home into darkness through most of the day.

Natural light will be blocked for most of the day. Shadowing will affect both living areas and outdoor spaces. The loss of sunlight during winter and morning hours will affect health, wellbeing, and energy costs.

The scale and bulk of the building are excessive for a residential area. Instead of greenery and open sky, residents will now face a concrete wall towering above them.

These changes will directly reduce the value of our property. Buyers will not pay the same price for a home that is dark, boxed in, and completely overlooked. This damages our financial security, equity, and ability to sell or refinance in future.

The proposal ignores basic planning principles that protect residential amenity. This is not just a visual or aesthetic problem. It is a fundamental loss of livability and financial value.

3. Overdevelopment and Lack of Supporting Infrastructure
This is a case of overdevelopment that the current infrastructure cannot support.

The addition of 126 apartments and 188 car spaces will increase congestion in an already narrow and heavily parked street.

Noise, pollution, and traffic will rise. This affects safety for children, pedestrians, and cyclists.

No schools, parks, or community services are being added to offset the strain on the neighbourhood.

Waste management and emergency vehicle access will be compromised.

The local area cannot absorb this density without long-term impacts on safety, access, and day-to-day life.

4. Lack of Transparency and Attempt to Override Community Feedback
This development is being pushed as a State Significant Development (SSD) to bypass local controls and fast-track approval. This process limits public objections and prevents residents from voicing their concerns through traditional methods like email. It feels deliberate and designed to reduce community input.

This site has already been subject to community consultation and council review. The previous proposal was rejected. We now face an even larger proposal being pushed through with less transparency and less opportunity to challenge it.

This is not fair planning. It undermines public trust and devalues the community’s voice.

5. Environmental and Neighbourhood Character Impacts
The proposal will cause permanent change to the neighbourhood’s landscape and ecosystem.

Trees and green buffer zones will be removed or blocked out.

Increased hard surfaces and basement excavation may affect drainage and runoff.

The scale of the building will overwhelm the streetscape, which is currently defined by detached homes, trees, and open space.

There is no place for a 9-storey structure in this location. It is visually and environmentally incompatible.

Requested Action:
I respectfully ask that the Department:

* Reject the application in its current form
* Protect the existing height and floor space restrictions under the Parramatta LEP
* Honour the community’s past feedback and the council’s earlier rejection
* Reopen proper channels for public comment and consultation, including email access and in-person hearings

I STRONGLY OBJECT to the proposed development on the following grounds:
1. Non-Compliance with Existing Zoning and Planning Controls
The proposal seeks to override the Parramatta Local Environmental Plan (LEP) by introducing a site-specific clause to permit a building up to 9 storeys (30 meters) in height and a floor space ratio of 2.25:1. This significantly exceeds the current planning controls for the area. These controls were created to preserve the character and livability of low-density residential neighbourhoods.

A previous application (DA/312/2021), which proposed a smaller 7-storey boarding house, was rejected by Parramatta Council because it did not align with the existing built form and character. There is no reasonable basis for approving an even larger and more intrusive proposal now.

2. Amenity Impacts: Privacy, Overshadowing, View Loss and Devaluation of Property
This development will cause severe damage to our privacy, quality of life, and property value of neighbouring residents.
The proposed 9-storey structure will overlook our balcony and interior living spaces. This means a complete loss of privacy. Our personal lives will be exposed to dozens of units with a clear line of sight into our home and garden. WE can never leave our blinds open in our living areas which will push our building and home into darkness through most of the day.

Natural light will be blocked for most of the day. Shadowing will affect both living areas and outdoor spaces. The loss of sunlight during winter and morning hours will affect health, wellbeing, and energy costs.

The scale and bulk of the building are excessive for a residential area. Instead of greenery and open sky, residents will now face a concrete wall towering above them.

These changes will directly reduce the value of our property. Buyers will not pay the same price for a home that is dark, boxed in, and completely overlooked. This damages our financial security, equity, and ability to sell or refinance in future.

The proposal ignores basic planning principles that protect residential amenity. This is not just a visual or aesthetic problem. It is a fundamental loss of livability and financial value.

3. Overdevelopment and Lack of Supporting Infrastructure
This is a case of overdevelopment that the current infrastructure cannot support.

The addition of 126 apartments and 188 car spaces will increase congestion in an already narrow and heavily parked street.

Noise, pollution, and traffic will rise. This affects safety for children, pedestrians, and cyclists.

No schools, parks, or community services are being added to offset the strain on the neighbourhood.

Waste management and emergency vehicle access will be compromised.

The local area cannot absorb this density without long-term impacts on safety, access, and day-to-day life.

4. Lack of Transparency and Attempt to Override Community Feedback
This development is being pushed as a State Significant Development (SSD) to bypass local controls and fast-track approval. This process limits public objections and prevents residents from voicing their concerns through traditional methods like email. It feels deliberate and designed to reduce community input.

This site has already been subject to community consultation and council review. The previous proposal was rejected. We now face an even larger proposal being pushed through with less transparency and less opportunity to challenge it.

This is not fair planning. It undermines public trust and devalues the community’s voice.

5. Environmental and Neighbourhood Character Impacts
The proposal will cause permanent change to the neighbourhood’s landscape and ecosystem.

Trees and green buffer zones will be removed or blocked out.

Increased hard surfaces and basement excavation may affect drainage and runoff.

The scale of the building will overwhelm the streetscape, which is currently defined by detached homes, trees, and open space.

There is no place for a 9-storey structure in this location. It is visually and environmentally incompatible.

Requested Action:
I respectfully ask that the Department:

* Reject the application in its current form
* Protect the existing height and floor space restrictions under the Parramatta LEP
* Honour the community’s past feedback and the council’s earlier rejection
* Reopen proper channels for public comment and consultation, including email access and in-person hearings

Any major development at 85-91 Thomas Street, especially one that is at a height above the current 11m maximum street height level will cause shadowing and it will also have a significant negative environmental impact on the Baludarri Wetlands which at directly adjacent to the site. Given that stormwater would discharge from a residential area, it has potential to contain litter, nutrients, and other pollutants which will impact the wetlands also the vegetation within the Baludarri Wetlands would be shaded during the winter months. A number of reports commissioned by Parramatta City Council identify the significant environmental importance of the Baludarri wetlands and mangroves which border the site at 85-91 Thomas St. Endangered and protected species in the Baludarri wetlands are extremely sensitive to pollution and possibly shadowing. For example, there is a coastal saltmarsh alongside the site, there are migratory birds which inhabit Baludarri wetlands:
Page 9 of the ‘Baludarri Wetland Plan of Management’ 2010 states “Key features of Baludarri Wetland include:
• Coastal saltmarsh, which is listed under the Threatened Species Conservation (TSC) Act 1995 as an Endangered Ecological Community (EEC).
• Freshwater wetlands, within the definition of freshwater wetlands on coastal floodplains, which is listed as EEC under the TSC Act.
• Migratory bird habitat protected under Federal Government inter governmental agreements (CAMBA JAMBA ROKAMBA) All migratory bird species listed in the annexes to these bilateral agreements are protected in Australia as matters of national environmental significance under the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act 1999.
• Mangrove community (heritage listed)
• Other remnant native (and exotic) vegetation”
(Source: ‘Baludarri Wetland Plan of Management’ 2010 - page 9)

It is clearly states that:
“Reducing pollution, avoiding vegetation removal and protecting wetland biological diversity and integrity are important activities that maintain and improve the resiliency of saltmarsh ecosystems under changed climatic conditions (Kusler and Burkett 1999).”
(Source: ‘Baludarri Wetland Plan of Management’ 2010 – page39)

Parramatta City Council reports titled ‘Baludarri Wetland Plan of Management’ (2010) and ‘Bushland Fauna Surveys, City of Parramatta’ (Oct 2016 – April 2017) note the presence of importance fauna at the Baludarri Wetlands. One of the reports notes the presence of two migratory birds that inhabit the wetlands including the Great Egret and Latham’s Snipes and also notes other “uncommon species”. I have included sections of the report:
Migratory species and ECBC Act status of migratory birds observed at Baludarri Wetland:
Great Egret -EPBC Act Listing Status
Listed marine as Ardea alba
Listed migratory – CAMBA as Egretta alba, JAMBA as Egretta alba

Latham’s Snipe -EPBC Act Listing Status
Listed marine as Gallinago hardwickii
Listed migratory – Bonn as Gallinago hardwickii, CAMBA as Gallinago hardwickii, JAMBA as Gallinago hardwickii, ROKAMBA as Gallinago hardwicki

(Source: “Baludarri Wetland Plan of Management” 2010 - page 46)


"A number of uncommon bird species were sighted during recent visits by AW staff. This suggests that, in addition to migratory birds, a number of other important species use the site. The freshwater wetland provides potential habitat for a range of vulnerable species, including frogs and microbats, which may be in the area. Historic fauna survey data is available and has been supplemented by informal observations recorded in an ad hoc manner." (Source: ‘Baludarri Wetland Plan of Management’ 2010 – pages 110-111)

Further to the environmental impact of the building it will also have a detrimental impact on the Thomas Street infrastructure and the surrounding infrastucture. The street is a typical suburban street and not a city street, the proposed building is on the outskirts of Parramatta and nowhere near the Parramatta CBD. For example, the development will create an untenable pressure on the street parking which is already a major problem for us residents and although the proposal includes on-site parking, most households are 2 car households and the proposal does not cater for that therefore, invariably there will be a major impact on the street parking.
Traffic on Thomas Street and surrounding streets has become considerably worse since the 2018 completion of the “Morton Street Precinct” comprising of at least six large scale multistorey apartment blocks. The intersection of Pemberton and Thomas Streets is now the scene of quite a large number of motor vehicle accidents. In addition, many of the vehicles that access the street drive well above the street speed limit and this is dangerous for many of the pedestrians on the street.
The other infrastructure ie. is quite a distance away from Thomas Street e.g. Parramatta Train station is not within walking distance and the Parramatta light rail stations are also quite a distance and a considerable walking distance from the residents of the street.

There are many other objetcions that the residents have but I have tried to focus on our main concerns. I have also attached photos of the rear of the site where the building is being proposed which is also alongside the Baludarri wetlands. Photos of the parking issues on the street are also attached.

9 stories is way too high for this very narrow street, in a quiet residential area, where dwellings are mostly single story. Ever since the right hand turn from Pemberton St to Victoria Rd has been closed off, turning onto James Ruse drive from Thomas St is now necessary and i literally fear for my life turning onto thomas st from pemberton st as visibility is so poor, and then turning onto James Ruse drive is a nightmare. I can only imagine with 9 stories of dwellings how unsafe this street will become. Driving down Thomas st is very scary as parked cars either side and basically the road becomes one way as so narrow. As a pedestrian it is already very difficult to cross safely,a s speeding cars appear out of nowhere. The heritage of this area is at risk, Western Sydney university across Jame Ruse Drive, has done an amazing job at keeping their campus in tune with the heritage of the site, however the proposed 9 stories is not - Parramatta CBD has been ruined by the amount of development and is making Parramatta unliveable and unrecognisable for people that have lived here for decades. To allow an unnecessary 9 stories development, not near public transport of any kind, and in an unsafe location, will set a precedent for further ruining this up until now relatively quiet pocket of Parramatta.

I wish to express my support for the application, noting that it aligns with the objectives of the HDA and contributes positively to the local community

I believe that the development:
- Supports the growth of residential density in a suitable location.
- Provides high-quality housing options that meet the needs of the community.
- Is consistent with the design standards and guidelines applicable to the area.

The NSW Government is trying to make a ghetto out of Parramatta. Does the Developer and the Ministers involved have 9 storey apartment blocks with affordable housing down their street where they live? If not perhaps they should build them there. I believe that under the guise of affordable housing, government ministers and developers are laughing all the way to the bank. They do not care about the destruction of the environment or the impact on local residents, who pay the rates and whose taxes pay government salaries.
This project is close to the James Ruse exit which is already congested and dangerous, as the right hand onto Victoria was blocked off, so now we have to go down Thomas street and turn left into James Ruse and then take the ramp off to turn right onto Vistoria Road. The Thomas street and Macarthur Street exit is an absolute nightmare. Adding 126 apartments will create more presuure and also make it even more unsafe as people get impatient as they need to get to work and kids to school etc. I have seen a car dart into James Ruse in front of a truck and there woiuld have been a fatality if not for the experience of the truckie. There is more and more traffic and this so called Development, will not develop the area but be detrimental to the area.
Furthermore, this proposal is out of character for the area which is mainly single dwellings and low rise dwellings. This development will also reduce the value and amenity of the neighbouring properties. This is an older residential area, that developers are trying to turn into a cement jungle!
The NSW Government has damaged Parramatta by ripping out the Historical Heart of Parramatta; destroying historical buildings and it keeps on trying to destroy it. Plans of turning Rosehill Racecourse into a full site of high rise apartments will create more chaos! So imagine the traffic congestion, noise pollution and danger to children and elderly residents and others!
These proposals and all those involved, need to be investigated, which Minsiters are being wined and dined by Developers? Where is the pay off? Something is definitely fishy... they act all caring by including ' affordable housing' as the by line so they can weasel in their development plans. I wonder where do they live? Do they have affordable housing down their street? Do they have high rise buidlings that make the area so much hotter and dirtier and dustier?
The proposed high rise buildings will impact the natural environment too with birds being affected; crashing into windows, loss of trees. Please do not say you guys will plant hundreds of trees!!! Saplings do not replace existing trees that are homes to our birds and insects and so on. The temperature will go up as we get surrounded by more and more cement buildings.
The talk about resident underground parking is a laugh too as of course people will take the convenient way out and park on the street. We can see what is already happening in Tennyson Street with residents clocking up hundreds of dollars of fines, as parking is now an issue and we the residents have to pay to park in front of our own homes, that we pay rates on! Our rates have now gone sky high and yet we keep getting weaseled out of our quality of life; just so Developers and their mates in government can laugh all the way to the bank.
Please do not make a ghetto out of Parramatta. We hope Parramatta Councillors will have the courage to block the proposal to Rezone the land which will give developers a green light to further destroy the area; creating overshadowing,noise, traffic congestion and loss of privacy for neighbouring properties.
Parramatta has done more than its share-you can see our once clear beautiful skyline bismirched by ugly concrete spires. Developers are using the State Significant Development Pathway to weasel their way in and bypass local planning control. This greed has to be stopped, as our neighbourhoods are being destroyed. Developers and those in the Government that has green lighted these projects need to go build in their own backyard instead!

The development is too far from public transport and is difficult to access. 9 stories is out of keeping with the area which is basically one story free-standing houses. The street with cars parked on both sides of the road is basically one lane. Already very difficult for pedestrians to cross the road safely There are no traffic lights or roundabouts between James Ruse Dr and MacArthur St so cars tend to speed. Trucks use it as a shortcut to CBD despite trucks being banned and many cars do the same

As this proposed building will impact my local area I feel I must object to the proposal in its current form. I could list all the usual items like traffic congestion, noise, public transport accessibility, overshadowing etc etc. However I list one item only.

The Parramatta 2023 LEP shows that this site has a height limit of 11 metres and as this proposal far exceeds this it should be refused in its current form.

I support this project.

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing to formally object to the proposed development of residential flat buildings at 85–91 Thomas Street, Parramatta.

As a local resident of the area, I have serious concerns about the potential impact this development will have on existing traffic conditions. The surrounding roads, particularly Thomas Street and its intersection with James Ruse Drive, are already narrow and frequently congested, especially during peak hours. The addition of a high-density residential complex will significantly increase vehicle volume, worsening congestion and raising safety concerns for pedestrians and other road users.

In particular:

Thomas Street is already under strain due to limited road width and existing traffic flow.

Access to James Ruse Drive is often delayed due to bottlenecks, and the proposed development will exacerbate this issue.

The area lacks sufficient infrastructure to support an influx of new residents, especially with respect to traffic management and parking.

I urge Council to consider the long-term impact this development will have on the quality of life for existing residents and the functionality of local infrastructure. I respectfully request that this proposal be reviewed in light of these concerns and that traffic and infrastructure assessments be made publicly available for community input.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

This development is entirely out of character for the area and poorly supported by close transport options.