I write to object to the proposed development at 9–17 Balfour Street, Lindfield.

Lindfield is valued for its quiet, leafy streets and established residential character. Balfour Street reflects this pattern: well-spaced homes, mature trees and generous garden setbacks create a sense of openness and continuity that defines the suburb.

The proposal seeks to replace four existing dwellings with a nine to ten storey building containing 121 units. While increased housing near public transport is appropriate, this proposal represents a scale of development that exceeds the prevailing built form in the area.

Apartment buildings in Lindfield, including those near the railway station, are generally around six storeys. A building rising to nine or ten storeys would stand well above surrounding development and introduce a bulk and intensity that is out of keeping with the established streetscape.

The existing homes, although not heritage-listed, are characteristic of Lindfield’s residential fabric. Their removal and replacement with a substantially taller structure would significantly alter the scale and character of Balfour Street.

Tree canopy is also central to the suburb’s identity. A mature tree on the site is currently showing significant dieback and warrants careful assessment. More broadly, large basement construction reduces opportunities for meaningful deep soil and long-term canopy retention.

Additional housing can be delivered in a way that respects existing character. A reduced height and scale would provide a more balanced outcome for this site.

I urge the consent authority to demand better design, enhancing rather than reducing biodiversity and social equity, for TOD developments. Please see attached letter for details.

NOTE: Assessment Officer superseded the previous PDF with the amended PDF which has redacted personal data as requested by the objector in via email on 18/02/2026. 'Name Withheld' was also ticked by the Assessment Officer.

NOTE: Assessment Officer replaced the previous PDF attachment with the objectors new PDF (which included additional objections) on 20/02/2026.

Dear Joe,
Please see attached submission.
Regards,
Niall

Hi Joe,
Please see my document attached with objection comments
Geoff

This project, located on the proposed site, is in my view deeply concerning.
It is completely inappropriate for such a massive development to be placed at this critical junction of our city, the exit from the Sydney Harbour Bridge where Lavender Street and Alfred Street funnel traffic to and from both the CBD and North Sydney.
It defies all logic.

These roads are already choked with congestion on the best of days, and adding further pressure will only create gridlock and chaos for everyone who lives, works, or travels through this area.

I am a resident who enters and exits Harbourview Cres on a daily basis and it is already, at times, a dangerous challenge. Lavender Street is a constant stream of vehicles and cyclists, and kerbside parking is always full to capacity. Navigating the area is extremely difficult while buses and large trucks ignore the new roundabout because the access is so tight, and the number of cyclists weaving in every direction only adds to the risk and confusion. If this is difficult now, imagine the chaos with even more traffic funnelled through these already overwhelmed streets.

I believe the view that residents won’t need cars simply because public transport is nearby, is wishful thinking and not a realistic plan. So the question remains. Where will all the extra vehicles go, and how will the streets cope with the increased traffic load?

The size of the proposed development is not just excessive it is outrageous and the fact that the planning department could seriously consider approving a project so out of step with the character of the local area is difficult to understand.

Overshadowing and the creation of wind tunnels by these massive towers will further erode the quality of life for current and future residents. Already we struggle with these issues, as anyone living on Cliff Street can attest. Imposing even greater environmental impacts is concerning.

Progress and development are necessary, but not at such an overwhelming cost. Proceeding with a project of this magnitude at this location is a step too far and shows a blatant disregard for the wellbeing of the community.

Milsons Point is not just another suburb—it is a treasured part of Sydney’s history. A destination for tourists who flock here to admire the beautiful Victorian terraces, stroll through heritage parks, visit Wendy’s Secret Garden, and take in the boardwalk to Luna Park. This unique character is at risk of being lost forever if we allow inappropriate high-rise developments to dominate the skyline.
One wonders in awe at the preserved beauty of so many European cities. Why would we destroy our own spectacular harbour suburbs by filling them with enormous skyscrapers - 32 Floors - the same as the Watermans Quay development in Barangaroo?

Once towering buildings cast permanent shadows, create wind tunnels and the noise and traffic escalate, there is no going back. The damage will be irreversible.
Please protect our suburb’s heritage, liveability, and unique charm for future generations.





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