Name Withheld
Object
Name Withheld
Object
Narrabeen
,
New South Wales
Message
To Whom it may Concern,
We are in our late 70s and early 80s and have lived in this Village since our unit was completed in 2013. We write to express our concern and opposition to RSL Lifecare's proposed Renewal Project for "Reimagining the Village’ Village.
Residents have been informed by RSL Lifecare that the proposed project will include the establishment of 27 new buildings the majority of which will be 5 to 8 stories high, in three phases over a 10-15 year period.
We came to this village with the expectation of being able to enjoy the remainder of our lives peacefully in bushland surroundings and a low density village and be protected by residents' rights afforded under the Retirement Villages Act and other relevant legislation.
Should this project be permitted to go ahead we will be condemned to live with the noise, dirt and dust associated with a building site for 15 years or more and have to see the character of the Village transformed into an over-50’s resort community which is very different to a retirement village. One of the major factors in our decision to move into the village was the major selling point that throughout your aging, individual needs, eg dementia care, care homes, nursing homes were all to be provided within the facility without you having to relocate elsewhere. Since we have been here most of these facilities have been allowed to run down and closed, and as instanced in the Stage 1 Development where the closed care homes are being used for space to construct high rise units with no attempt to replace them.
In addition, for many residents will be, the inconvenience, physical and psychological stress of being forcibly relocated and the added mobility risks within the Village for pedestrians and disabled during construction.
Many residents struggle with the ever increasing cost of living in this Village and may be unable to absorb the additional cost of maintaining high rise new buildings fitted out to a higher standard and equipped with lifts, car park security gates, intercoms etc.
There are many aspects of this Village, in its current state, that require attention from the Operator such as aging infrastructure, substandard dwellings, insufficient care facilities, footpaths, and poor signage, traffic speed regulation, minor repairs, regular preventative and remedial maintenance, etc.; before subjecting existing residents to an unwanted renewal project that few of us will live to see completed and derive any benefit from.
RSL Lifecare and Government appear willing to contravene legislation and jeopardise the wellbeing of elderly residents in this Village in pursuit of their aspirations to create a high density development that incorporates their concepts for future independent living trends and satisfies an apparent need for additional dwellings.
This renewal project must not be permitted to proceed as currently proposed and we urge you to note our concerns and opposition.
We are in our late 70s and early 80s and have lived in this Village since our unit was completed in 2013. We write to express our concern and opposition to RSL Lifecare's proposed Renewal Project for "Reimagining the Village’ Village.
Residents have been informed by RSL Lifecare that the proposed project will include the establishment of 27 new buildings the majority of which will be 5 to 8 stories high, in three phases over a 10-15 year period.
We came to this village with the expectation of being able to enjoy the remainder of our lives peacefully in bushland surroundings and a low density village and be protected by residents' rights afforded under the Retirement Villages Act and other relevant legislation.
Should this project be permitted to go ahead we will be condemned to live with the noise, dirt and dust associated with a building site for 15 years or more and have to see the character of the Village transformed into an over-50’s resort community which is very different to a retirement village. One of the major factors in our decision to move into the village was the major selling point that throughout your aging, individual needs, eg dementia care, care homes, nursing homes were all to be provided within the facility without you having to relocate elsewhere. Since we have been here most of these facilities have been allowed to run down and closed, and as instanced in the Stage 1 Development where the closed care homes are being used for space to construct high rise units with no attempt to replace them.
In addition, for many residents will be, the inconvenience, physical and psychological stress of being forcibly relocated and the added mobility risks within the Village for pedestrians and disabled during construction.
Many residents struggle with the ever increasing cost of living in this Village and may be unable to absorb the additional cost of maintaining high rise new buildings fitted out to a higher standard and equipped with lifts, car park security gates, intercoms etc.
There are many aspects of this Village, in its current state, that require attention from the Operator such as aging infrastructure, substandard dwellings, insufficient care facilities, footpaths, and poor signage, traffic speed regulation, minor repairs, regular preventative and remedial maintenance, etc.; before subjecting existing residents to an unwanted renewal project that few of us will live to see completed and derive any benefit from.
RSL Lifecare and Government appear willing to contravene legislation and jeopardise the wellbeing of elderly residents in this Village in pursuit of their aspirations to create a high density development that incorporates their concepts for future independent living trends and satisfies an apparent need for additional dwellings.
This renewal project must not be permitted to proceed as currently proposed and we urge you to note our concerns and opposition.
Ann Eyers
Object
Ann Eyers
Object
Narrabeen
,
New South Wales
Message
SSD-85869467
I’ve been a resident in the RSL Anzac Village Narrabeen for over eleven years. I object to the recently lodged SSD-85869467, in part because it will drastically alter the built and the natural environment of the Narrabeen site. Also, the prospect of the Plan being passed in its current form is already adversely affecting many of the current residents, resulting in fear of the unknown, pain and loss of social cohesion.
In commenting on this SSD, I can offer no specialist technical knowledge or experience. Having done my best in the fourteen days allowed to trawl through the hundreds of pages of information and explanation which support the plans for this major redevelopment I’ve concluded that the SSD application appears to do what it says it will do. It sets out the appropriate steps necessary to complete this huge project within the regulations which govern it. Successful adherence to the EIS however would be dependent upon the project doing no harm to people and the environment and progressing in an ideal manner without incidents or accidents.
The RSL project vision as included in the EIS [p 22] is to “create a vibrant, connected community where veterans and seniors can thrive”. The stated objectives to deliver on this vision include the maintenance and upgrading of the built environment, “Improve the sustainability outcomes for the site” [I take this to mean the environmental, social and economic needs] and a response to the housing crisis in NSW. These measures are counter productive if they come at immeasurable social and environmental cost. Sustainable outcomes depend upon doing no harm to people or the natural environment. The welfare of hundreds of Veterans and seniors currently living on this site and the natural environment in which they live have to be taken into account in this SSD.
Much of the soil and sandstone laid down over many years on this site will be removed in this development, taking with it hundreds of mature trees, homes to a huge array of wildlife.
If any version of this SSD is to be approved and implemented, it should be noted that it is impossible to factor into its implementation any of the accidents of nature or human element which inevitably occur during demolition, tree removal and building. The ideal building and development plan is laid out in the SSD on paper to be converted into concrete, bricks and landscaped forms. It is so easy however for accidents or noncompliance to allow cracks to appear in this ideal plan into which the people most affected by the proposed changes may sew the seeds of fear and concern.
My major fears and concerns for the future are that the project will not offer hope and opportunity for all residents, current and future, to “thrive [and remain] connected [to] community.” Largely because of what seems to be a project overreach in ambition and the difficulty of oversight on compliance issues. It has been proven when building on this site in the past that preventable accidents which were harmful to the natural environment and residents have occurred. The larger the building site and building forms the more likely this is to reoccur. A less ambitious plan might allow more care to be taken to prevent incidents and accidents.
As a resident stakeholder all I can bring to the project is my life experience along with my values, ethics, hopes and dreams but ultimately they seem to be weak tools for the job of helping to ethically shape or reshape the present and the future here. I believed when I contracted with RSL to live on this site that I was contracted to a lifestyle without interference with my “peace and comfort”. This will be difficult to maintain.
My formal objection to this SSD is its sheer size, its adverse effects on the natural environment and the physiological and psychological effects it imposes on residents and neighbours already living here. Many of those residents came here, at least in part, because of the natural environment within and surrounding the site.
For reasons cited here, I cannot believe that ongoing development on the site for many years to come will promote for future residents the creation of “… a vibrant, connected community where veterans and seniors can thrive” whilst destroying that very vision for current residents. This creates a situation which doesn’t allow for a positive dynamic to exist.
The successful implementation of the RSL SSD’s stated goals will only be achievable if they are measurable within the regulations, nominated time frames and constraints, and efficiently monitored to prove they positively meet the terms of all contracts, including the social contract between the developers and the stakeholders.
Each contractor and signatory to this SSD should be able to demonstrate the necessary communication skills, and preparedness to accept and act on their responsibilities and accountabilities in order to achieve their contractual obligations at all times. Failure to meet the terms of any contracts means failure of sustainable outcomes for the whole project.
I believe current and future stakeholders and the natural environment would benefit from a reduction in height and scale from what is proposed in the SSD.
I fear a day when a clear view of the sky, the rustle of a fresh, clean breeze in the trees and birdsong are gone from this place forever.
Thank you.
I’ve been a resident in the RSL Anzac Village Narrabeen for over eleven years. I object to the recently lodged SSD-85869467, in part because it will drastically alter the built and the natural environment of the Narrabeen site. Also, the prospect of the Plan being passed in its current form is already adversely affecting many of the current residents, resulting in fear of the unknown, pain and loss of social cohesion.
In commenting on this SSD, I can offer no specialist technical knowledge or experience. Having done my best in the fourteen days allowed to trawl through the hundreds of pages of information and explanation which support the plans for this major redevelopment I’ve concluded that the SSD application appears to do what it says it will do. It sets out the appropriate steps necessary to complete this huge project within the regulations which govern it. Successful adherence to the EIS however would be dependent upon the project doing no harm to people and the environment and progressing in an ideal manner without incidents or accidents.
The RSL project vision as included in the EIS [p 22] is to “create a vibrant, connected community where veterans and seniors can thrive”. The stated objectives to deliver on this vision include the maintenance and upgrading of the built environment, “Improve the sustainability outcomes for the site” [I take this to mean the environmental, social and economic needs] and a response to the housing crisis in NSW. These measures are counter productive if they come at immeasurable social and environmental cost. Sustainable outcomes depend upon doing no harm to people or the natural environment. The welfare of hundreds of Veterans and seniors currently living on this site and the natural environment in which they live have to be taken into account in this SSD.
Much of the soil and sandstone laid down over many years on this site will be removed in this development, taking with it hundreds of mature trees, homes to a huge array of wildlife.
If any version of this SSD is to be approved and implemented, it should be noted that it is impossible to factor into its implementation any of the accidents of nature or human element which inevitably occur during demolition, tree removal and building. The ideal building and development plan is laid out in the SSD on paper to be converted into concrete, bricks and landscaped forms. It is so easy however for accidents or noncompliance to allow cracks to appear in this ideal plan into which the people most affected by the proposed changes may sew the seeds of fear and concern.
My major fears and concerns for the future are that the project will not offer hope and opportunity for all residents, current and future, to “thrive [and remain] connected [to] community.” Largely because of what seems to be a project overreach in ambition and the difficulty of oversight on compliance issues. It has been proven when building on this site in the past that preventable accidents which were harmful to the natural environment and residents have occurred. The larger the building site and building forms the more likely this is to reoccur. A less ambitious plan might allow more care to be taken to prevent incidents and accidents.
As a resident stakeholder all I can bring to the project is my life experience along with my values, ethics, hopes and dreams but ultimately they seem to be weak tools for the job of helping to ethically shape or reshape the present and the future here. I believed when I contracted with RSL to live on this site that I was contracted to a lifestyle without interference with my “peace and comfort”. This will be difficult to maintain.
My formal objection to this SSD is its sheer size, its adverse effects on the natural environment and the physiological and psychological effects it imposes on residents and neighbours already living here. Many of those residents came here, at least in part, because of the natural environment within and surrounding the site.
For reasons cited here, I cannot believe that ongoing development on the site for many years to come will promote for future residents the creation of “… a vibrant, connected community where veterans and seniors can thrive” whilst destroying that very vision for current residents. This creates a situation which doesn’t allow for a positive dynamic to exist.
The successful implementation of the RSL SSD’s stated goals will only be achievable if they are measurable within the regulations, nominated time frames and constraints, and efficiently monitored to prove they positively meet the terms of all contracts, including the social contract between the developers and the stakeholders.
Each contractor and signatory to this SSD should be able to demonstrate the necessary communication skills, and preparedness to accept and act on their responsibilities and accountabilities in order to achieve their contractual obligations at all times. Failure to meet the terms of any contracts means failure of sustainable outcomes for the whole project.
I believe current and future stakeholders and the natural environment would benefit from a reduction in height and scale from what is proposed in the SSD.
I fear a day when a clear view of the sky, the rustle of a fresh, clean breeze in the trees and birdsong are gone from this place forever.
Thank you.
Name Withheld
Object
Name Withheld
Object
Narrabeen
,
New South Wales
Message
To Whom it may Concern,
We are in our late 70s and early 80s and have lived in this Village since our unit was completed in 2013. We write to express our concern and opposition to RSL Lifecare's proposed Renewal Project for "Reimagining the Village’ Village.
Residents have been informed by RSL Lifecare that the proposed project will include the establishment of 27 new buildings the majority of which will be 5 to 8 stories high, in three phases over a 10-15 year period.
We came to this village with the expectation of being able to enjoy the remainder of our lives peacefully in bushland surroundings and a low density village and be protected by residents' rights afforded under the Retirement Villages Act and other relevant legislation.
Should this project be permitted to go ahead we will be condemned to live with the noise, dirt and dust associated with a building site for 15 years or more and have to see the character of the Village transformed into an over-50’s resort community which is very different to a retirement village. One of the major factors in our decision to move into the village was the major selling point that throughout your aging, individual needs, eg dementia care, care homes, nursing homes were all to be provided within the facility without you having to relocate elsewhere. Since we have been here most of these facilities have been allowed to run down and closed, and as instanced in the Stage 1 Development where the closed care homes are being used for space to construct high rise units with no attempt to replace them.
In addition, for many residents will be, the inconvenience, physical and psychological stress of being forcibly relocated and the added mobility risks within the Village for pedestrians and disabled during construction.
Many residents struggle with the ever increasing cost of living in this Village and may be unable to absorb the additional cost of maintaining high rise new buildings fitted out to a higher standard and equipped with lifts, car park security gates, intercoms etc.
There are many aspects of this Village, in its current state, that require attention from the Operator such as aging infrastructure, substandard dwellings, insufficient care facilities, footpaths, and poor signage, traffic speed regulation, minor repairs, regular preventative and remedial maintenance, etc.; before subjecting existing residents to an unwanted renewal project that few of us will live to see completed and derive any benefit from.
RSL Lifecare and Government appear willing to contravene legislation and jeopardise the wellbeing of elderly residents in this Village in pursuit of their aspirations to create a high density development that incorporates their concepts for future independent living trends and satisfies an apparent need for additional dwellings.
This renewal project must not be permitted to proceed as currently proposed and we urge you to note our concerns and opposition.
We are in our late 70s and early 80s and have lived in this Village since our unit was completed in 2013. We write to express our concern and opposition to RSL Lifecare's proposed Renewal Project for "Reimagining the Village’ Village.
Residents have been informed by RSL Lifecare that the proposed project will include the establishment of 27 new buildings the majority of which will be 5 to 8 stories high, in three phases over a 10-15 year period.
We came to this village with the expectation of being able to enjoy the remainder of our lives peacefully in bushland surroundings and a low density village and be protected by residents' rights afforded under the Retirement Villages Act and other relevant legislation.
Should this project be permitted to go ahead we will be condemned to live with the noise, dirt and dust associated with a building site for 15 years or more and have to see the character of the Village transformed into an over-50’s resort community which is very different to a retirement village. One of the major factors in our decision to move into the village was the major selling point that throughout your aging, individual needs, eg dementia care, care homes, nursing homes were all to be provided within the facility without you having to relocate elsewhere. Since we have been here most of these facilities have been allowed to run down and closed, and as instanced in the Stage 1 Development where the closed care homes are being used for space to construct high rise units with no attempt to replace them.
In addition, for many residents will be, the inconvenience, physical and psychological stress of being forcibly relocated and the added mobility risks within the Village for pedestrians and disabled during construction.
Many residents struggle with the ever increasing cost of living in this Village and may be unable to absorb the additional cost of maintaining high rise new buildings fitted out to a higher standard and equipped with lifts, car park security gates, intercoms etc.
There are many aspects of this Village, in its current state, that require attention from the Operator such as aging infrastructure, substandard dwellings, insufficient care facilities, footpaths, and poor signage, traffic speed regulation, minor repairs, regular preventative and remedial maintenance, etc.; before subjecting existing residents to an unwanted renewal project that few of us will live to see completed and derive any benefit from.
RSL Lifecare and Government appear willing to contravene legislation and jeopardise the wellbeing of elderly residents in this Village in pursuit of their aspirations to create a high density development that incorporates their concepts for future independent living trends and satisfies an apparent need for additional dwellings.
This renewal project must not be permitted to proceed as currently proposed and we urge you to note our concerns and opposition.
Lynette Riches
Comment
Lynette Riches
Comment
NARRABEEN
,
New South Wales
Message
I chose the War Vets as my Home eight years ago. I know that there needs to be renewal of buildings and roads Still this is an overkill, for it to be successful it needs the acceptance of the current residents, sadly many will not see it come to fruition.
I feel that we will loose our Village Vibe and become another version of a flat/unit city suburb for old people, I partially chose here, as it was NOT crowded with high rise. The Masterplan is indicating that it will be.
I did not realise that people would be subjected to loosing their Homes. I am happy with my choice , as many others are also. This is to be my FINAL home. The Operator seemed to be genuine and I believed they had my best interest at heart ,now I am living in a state of anxiety. Whose HOME is next to go ?
When I arrived there were eight Nursing/Care homes ( this was, to me, a very good reason to move here) The reasons for the closure of four of them seemed reasonable and necessary, now we are to lose another and to replace all of these Care Homes, there are to be only 100 beds more allocated in the plan.
I believe that gardens, green areas and the bush are very important parts for our wellbeing , our quality of life and I expect that to be an essential part of this renewal. I want to be trusting and that the Operator really will make this an integral part of this renewal and be responsible for it and to continue to have it usable and assessible for all.
The first immediate impact that this Stage 1 destruction and rebuild will be the increase in traffic on Lantana Ave. Heavy vehicles bring extra noise and wear and tear, delays for all. The demolishing of old buildings well effect the quality of the air, more noise and a general mess. Who would want to live by this for maybe two years and then live near future Stages that are planned, for up to 15 years !
I will not be able to use the pool , even if as, the possibly proposed, to leave it for us whilst the work goes on and to remove it once the new pool is built. Imagine manoeuvring through all of this . The air quality will compromise my health, the noise will cause chronic stress and anxiety and imagine this for the folk who live right near it all. I have already lived through nigh 3 years of construction here at the village , there was no escape during COVID or due to immobility for some of my neighbours. There were always delays and some mistakes made by the construction companies that caused the project to go on for much, much longer than planned.
Progress can be wonderful and we need to be realistic I accept this . This up to fifteen years is overwhelming and at times I can see no Empathy shown. We need to have those who are already here at the War Vets cared for and to also care for the infrastructure, gardens and areas that are already here and not to lose the GOOD Vibe of our Village - OUR HOME !
I have a new mantra
Is this True ?
Is it Helpful ?
Is it Inspiring?
Is it Necessary?
Is it Kind?
I feel that we will loose our Village Vibe and become another version of a flat/unit city suburb for old people, I partially chose here, as it was NOT crowded with high rise. The Masterplan is indicating that it will be.
I did not realise that people would be subjected to loosing their Homes. I am happy with my choice , as many others are also. This is to be my FINAL home. The Operator seemed to be genuine and I believed they had my best interest at heart ,now I am living in a state of anxiety. Whose HOME is next to go ?
When I arrived there were eight Nursing/Care homes ( this was, to me, a very good reason to move here) The reasons for the closure of four of them seemed reasonable and necessary, now we are to lose another and to replace all of these Care Homes, there are to be only 100 beds more allocated in the plan.
I believe that gardens, green areas and the bush are very important parts for our wellbeing , our quality of life and I expect that to be an essential part of this renewal. I want to be trusting and that the Operator really will make this an integral part of this renewal and be responsible for it and to continue to have it usable and assessible for all.
The first immediate impact that this Stage 1 destruction and rebuild will be the increase in traffic on Lantana Ave. Heavy vehicles bring extra noise and wear and tear, delays for all. The demolishing of old buildings well effect the quality of the air, more noise and a general mess. Who would want to live by this for maybe two years and then live near future Stages that are planned, for up to 15 years !
I will not be able to use the pool , even if as, the possibly proposed, to leave it for us whilst the work goes on and to remove it once the new pool is built. Imagine manoeuvring through all of this . The air quality will compromise my health, the noise will cause chronic stress and anxiety and imagine this for the folk who live right near it all. I have already lived through nigh 3 years of construction here at the village , there was no escape during COVID or due to immobility for some of my neighbours. There were always delays and some mistakes made by the construction companies that caused the project to go on for much, much longer than planned.
Progress can be wonderful and we need to be realistic I accept this . This up to fifteen years is overwhelming and at times I can see no Empathy shown. We need to have those who are already here at the War Vets cared for and to also care for the infrastructure, gardens and areas that are already here and not to lose the GOOD Vibe of our Village - OUR HOME !
I have a new mantra
Is this True ?
Is it Helpful ?
Is it Inspiring?
Is it Necessary?
Is it Kind?
Name Withheld
Object
Name Withheld
Object
Narrabeen
,
New South Wales
Message
I am 74 years old and have lived in ANZAC Village since December 2023. Unfortunately I have been diagnosed with Pulmonary Fibrosis, this is along with other health issues and would like to lodge my concern and opposition to RSL Lifecare’s proposed Renewal Project for “Reimagining the Village”.
As a resident I have been informed by RSL Lifecare (The Operator) that the proposed project will include the establishment of 27 new buildings the majority of which will be between 5 to 8 stories high. This project is to be carried out over a 15 year period.
Before moving to this Village I lived in an seniors SEPP55 unit within a residential area not far from where I live now. The attraction of moving was living in a community, in bushland to enjoy the flora and fauna and peaceful surroundings after living on a busy road. ANZAC Village met my criteria as it has the bushland setting, I love seeing the swamp wallabies, water dragons, kookaburras, magpies and various other native animals. This village has mainly low density housing which also fitted my criteria for my forever home.
Should this project be permitted to go ahead I will be subjected to live with noise, dirt and dust associated with a building site, this could affect my health. This is projected to be carried out in 3 stages over 15-year period.
My main concern is the building work causing dust, noise, transport delays and inconvenience. Residents living in the Dardanelles area of the village directly west of the proposed Stage 1 of this proposed development will encounter access problems as there is only one road in and out of the area uphill towards the Villers Bretonneux where Stage 1 is located.
I am sure Lifecare has considered the ongoing costs of upkeeping buildings of 4 to 7 stories high, but the impact on existing residents of higher service costs is daunting.
There are many aspects of this Village, in its current state, that require attention from the Operator such as aging infrastructure, in this case the Operator has not taken the age and mobility of the residents into account when designing the recent upgrades, for example in Dardanelles there are no footpaths in front or behind their units, this requires residents to walk on roads, at their peril, when entering the area road signage is confusing at best, visitors, delivery drivers and the Ambulance service have problems finding the specific unit they need to visit or access. New Labuan has narrow roadways that make accessing garages difficult and lack of footpaths for elderly residents is a problem, Lifecare have already had to make adjustments to roadway in Labuan. Recently a lift needed repair in one of our multi storey buildings and waiting for repairs subjected residents to stay in their homes isolated and unable to leave due to their inability to have the ability to use the emergency stairwell, this resulted in the operator having to buy equipment and allocate staff to assist people with mobility issues. Elderly need to feel safe where they live.
RSL Lifecare the Australian and NSW Governments appear willing to contravene legislation to jeopardise the wellbeing of elderly residents in this Village in pursuit of their aspirations to create a high density development that incorporates concepts for future independent living trends and satisfies an apparent need for additional dwellings.
This renewal project must not be permitted to proceed as currently proposed, and I urge you to note my concerns and opposition.
As a resident I have been informed by RSL Lifecare (The Operator) that the proposed project will include the establishment of 27 new buildings the majority of which will be between 5 to 8 stories high. This project is to be carried out over a 15 year period.
Before moving to this Village I lived in an seniors SEPP55 unit within a residential area not far from where I live now. The attraction of moving was living in a community, in bushland to enjoy the flora and fauna and peaceful surroundings after living on a busy road. ANZAC Village met my criteria as it has the bushland setting, I love seeing the swamp wallabies, water dragons, kookaburras, magpies and various other native animals. This village has mainly low density housing which also fitted my criteria for my forever home.
Should this project be permitted to go ahead I will be subjected to live with noise, dirt and dust associated with a building site, this could affect my health. This is projected to be carried out in 3 stages over 15-year period.
My main concern is the building work causing dust, noise, transport delays and inconvenience. Residents living in the Dardanelles area of the village directly west of the proposed Stage 1 of this proposed development will encounter access problems as there is only one road in and out of the area uphill towards the Villers Bretonneux where Stage 1 is located.
I am sure Lifecare has considered the ongoing costs of upkeeping buildings of 4 to 7 stories high, but the impact on existing residents of higher service costs is daunting.
There are many aspects of this Village, in its current state, that require attention from the Operator such as aging infrastructure, in this case the Operator has not taken the age and mobility of the residents into account when designing the recent upgrades, for example in Dardanelles there are no footpaths in front or behind their units, this requires residents to walk on roads, at their peril, when entering the area road signage is confusing at best, visitors, delivery drivers and the Ambulance service have problems finding the specific unit they need to visit or access. New Labuan has narrow roadways that make accessing garages difficult and lack of footpaths for elderly residents is a problem, Lifecare have already had to make adjustments to roadway in Labuan. Recently a lift needed repair in one of our multi storey buildings and waiting for repairs subjected residents to stay in their homes isolated and unable to leave due to their inability to have the ability to use the emergency stairwell, this resulted in the operator having to buy equipment and allocate staff to assist people with mobility issues. Elderly need to feel safe where they live.
RSL Lifecare the Australian and NSW Governments appear willing to contravene legislation to jeopardise the wellbeing of elderly residents in this Village in pursuit of their aspirations to create a high density development that incorporates concepts for future independent living trends and satisfies an apparent need for additional dwellings.
This renewal project must not be permitted to proceed as currently proposed, and I urge you to note my concerns and opposition.
Rachel Cernecca
Object
Rachel Cernecca
Object
WHEELER HEIGHTS
,
New South Wales
Message
I am writing to object to the proposed development of the ANZAC Village Seniors Housing which is directly across the road from our house.
I object to the immense scale of the buildings being built in this low rise area. Directly across the road from us they are proposing to build two 5 and 6 storey buildings, townhouses (Stage 1), together with additional 4 storey town houses on Lantana Avenue (Stage 2). What senior citizen needs a 4 storey townhouse? The application states that the height of the buildings will reduce towards the street and be higher further inside the Village. This is patently not true. Any buildings built directly on Lantana Avenue should be no more than 2 stories high and in keeping with the existing streetscape. The height and scale of these townhouses will have a massive impact on the surrounding neighbours' properties by overshadowing their houses and dominating the streetscape, and impacting views.
Lantana Avenue is a quiet, peacful street with battleaxe driveways and many young families living in it. Whilst I understand the War Vets want to update their housing stock, I am concerned about the scale of these buildings, the impact of the building and construction noise ,the danger of trucks coming and going and double parking on the street for year to come, the safety of children in the street and and the safety of us reversing out onto Lantana Avenue with the significant increase in traffic and large, heavy vehicles.
I am concerned about how, in the event of a bushfire, all these residents and families as well as the new residents of the proposed buildings in the War Vets will be able to get out without Lantana Avenue and Veterans Parade becoming gridlocked. What is the plan in the event of a bushfire for the existing residents of Lantana Avenue?
We have very limited parking on Lantana Avenue since the Council took away the parking on the northern side of the street. I am concerned about what will happen to the parking on Lantana Avenue during construction and once this has been completed. The scale of this development should require that on street parking for the existing residents of Lantana Avenue also be considered and parking be reinstated on the northern side of the street. I would have thought that the street would need to be widened to allow for additional traffic to come and go safely as well as pedestrians to navigate the street safely.
Environmentally, the loss of trees is also concerning. When I walk through the Village I regularly see wildlife such as wallabies, possums, cockatoos, kookaburras, bush turkeys, water dragons and blue tongue lizards. The loss of 131 trees is a shocking number and will no doubt impact these animals significantly. Whilst I understand there will be further planting of trees, I am still concerned about the impact on wildlife of this development and request that the NSW Government take this into consideration.
There has been absolutely no community consultation with the residents of Lantana Avenue. There has been no forum where we can put our objections or discuss any of our concerns. I understand that they did have some consultation inside the War Vets village but we were not informed nor invited to be a part of this so the fact that they have said there has been community consultation is a joke.
In summary, I believe the development, in its current form, is a massive overdevelopment in a quiet, peaceful street and should be revised to take into account the impact of the development on the existing residents of Lantana Avenue and that their safety also be taken into consideration in regards to bushfires, traffic congestion, noise, disruption, overshadowing and view loss, and environmental destruction.
I object to the immense scale of the buildings being built in this low rise area. Directly across the road from us they are proposing to build two 5 and 6 storey buildings, townhouses (Stage 1), together with additional 4 storey town houses on Lantana Avenue (Stage 2). What senior citizen needs a 4 storey townhouse? The application states that the height of the buildings will reduce towards the street and be higher further inside the Village. This is patently not true. Any buildings built directly on Lantana Avenue should be no more than 2 stories high and in keeping with the existing streetscape. The height and scale of these townhouses will have a massive impact on the surrounding neighbours' properties by overshadowing their houses and dominating the streetscape, and impacting views.
Lantana Avenue is a quiet, peacful street with battleaxe driveways and many young families living in it. Whilst I understand the War Vets want to update their housing stock, I am concerned about the scale of these buildings, the impact of the building and construction noise ,the danger of trucks coming and going and double parking on the street for year to come, the safety of children in the street and and the safety of us reversing out onto Lantana Avenue with the significant increase in traffic and large, heavy vehicles.
I am concerned about how, in the event of a bushfire, all these residents and families as well as the new residents of the proposed buildings in the War Vets will be able to get out without Lantana Avenue and Veterans Parade becoming gridlocked. What is the plan in the event of a bushfire for the existing residents of Lantana Avenue?
We have very limited parking on Lantana Avenue since the Council took away the parking on the northern side of the street. I am concerned about what will happen to the parking on Lantana Avenue during construction and once this has been completed. The scale of this development should require that on street parking for the existing residents of Lantana Avenue also be considered and parking be reinstated on the northern side of the street. I would have thought that the street would need to be widened to allow for additional traffic to come and go safely as well as pedestrians to navigate the street safely.
Environmentally, the loss of trees is also concerning. When I walk through the Village I regularly see wildlife such as wallabies, possums, cockatoos, kookaburras, bush turkeys, water dragons and blue tongue lizards. The loss of 131 trees is a shocking number and will no doubt impact these animals significantly. Whilst I understand there will be further planting of trees, I am still concerned about the impact on wildlife of this development and request that the NSW Government take this into consideration.
There has been absolutely no community consultation with the residents of Lantana Avenue. There has been no forum where we can put our objections or discuss any of our concerns. I understand that they did have some consultation inside the War Vets village but we were not informed nor invited to be a part of this so the fact that they have said there has been community consultation is a joke.
In summary, I believe the development, in its current form, is a massive overdevelopment in a quiet, peaceful street and should be revised to take into account the impact of the development on the existing residents of Lantana Avenue and that their safety also be taken into consideration in regards to bushfires, traffic congestion, noise, disruption, overshadowing and view loss, and environmental destruction.
Seamus Tyler-Baxter
Object
Seamus Tyler-Baxter
Object
COLLAROY PLATEAU
,
New South Wales
Message
OBJECTION TO STATE SIGNIFICANT DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION
Application No: SSD 85869467
ANZAC Village Seniors Housing – Concept & Stage 1
90 Veterans Parade, Narrabeen NSW
Dear Planning Assessment Officer,
I am a local resident writing to formally object to the proposed redevelopment of ANZAC Village at 90 Veterans Parade, Narrabeen.
While I understand the need for appropriate seniors housing, the scale, height and density of what is being proposed is completely out of step with this area and will have lasting impacts on traffic, views, and the character of the neighbourhood. As a resident who lives with the day to day realities of these streets, I am very concerned about the consequences of this development if it proceeds in its current form.
Grounds for Objection
Traffic Congestion and Local Street Impacts
Traffic congestion is already a daily issue in and around Veterans Parade, Lantana Avenue and surrounding streets. These roads were never designed to support development of this scale.
The proposal introduces hundreds of new dwellings, a residential care facility, visitor traffic and a café, supported by extensive on site parking. This will inevitably lead to a significant increase in vehicle movement throughout the day, spilling into local streets and worsening congestion during peak periods and weekends.
Lantana Avenue already has limited on street parking, with restrictions on one side of the road. Increased density will only push parking and traffic pressure further into surrounding streets, making access more difficult for residents, visitors and emergency vehicles.
What concerns me most is that there has been no clear, holistic assessment of the full traffic impact once all stages are completed. Treating this as a staged development does not reduce the final burden on the road network — it merely delays it.
Building Height and Scale Are Completely Out of Character
The proposed buildings of up to eight storeys are entirely inappropriate for this location.
This area is defined by low density housing — predominantly one and two storey homes — and has remained that way for decades. Introducing buildings of this height will dramatically change the visual character of the neighbourhood and create a bulky, dominant presence that feels more like a town centre than a suburban residential area.
There is little to no effective transition between the new development and adjacent homes. From surrounding streets, the scale of these buildings will feel abrupt and overwhelming, permanently altering the look and feel of the area.
Loss of Views and Residential Amenity
Many residents currently enjoy open views across the existing ANZAC Village site. These views will be significantly and permanently obstructed by multi storey buildings.
The impact is not just visual — it affects natural light, outlook, and overall enjoyment of homes that people have invested in and lived in for many years. The application does not adequately address the seriousness of this view loss from the perspective of affected residents.
Once these buildings are constructed, the loss is irreversible.
Incompatibility with the Existing Streetscape
The character of Lantana Avenue and surrounding streets is defined by detached homes, trees, open space and a consistent low rise form. This proposal introduces an urban scale development that feels completely disconnected from its surroundings.
When viewed from nearby streets and across Narrabeen Lake, the development will appear dominant and visually intrusive, rather than integrated or respectful of the existing environment.
Tree Loss and Environmental Impact
The removal of a large number of mature trees — even at Stage 1 — will significantly reduce tree canopy and greenery in the area. Mature trees play an important role in shade, cooling, habitat and the overall character of the neighbourhood.
While replacement planting is proposed, young trees cannot compensate for the immediate and long term loss of established canopy.
Lack of Genuine Community Engagement
Residents most affected by this development were not meaningfully consulted before the application was lodged. Information was only provided once the proposal had been finalised and placed on exhibition.
For a project of this size and impact, early and genuine engagement should have occurred to ensure the outcome respected the surrounding community.
What I Am Asking the Department to Do
I respectfully ask the Department to:
• Refuse the application in its current form
• Require genuine community consultation before any revised proposal is considered
• Limit building heights along Lantana Avenue and visible interfaces to a maximum of two storeys
• Require a comprehensive traffic and parking assessment covering all stages of development
• Significantly reduce the overall scale and density of the proposal
• Require independent review of tree removal and canopy impacts
• Require a proper assessment of view loss and streetscape impacts
• Carefully consider emergency access and evacuation planning, especially given bushfire risk
This proposal would permanently alter the character of the neighbourhood and place unacceptable pressure on local streets, views and amenity. I urge the Department to give serious weight to the concerns of residents who will live with the consequences long after a decision is made.
Yours sincerely,
Seamus Tyler-Baxter
Address: 99 Veterans Parade, Collaroy Plateau, NSW, 2097
Email Address: [email protected]
Application No: SSD 85869467
ANZAC Village Seniors Housing – Concept & Stage 1
90 Veterans Parade, Narrabeen NSW
Dear Planning Assessment Officer,
I am a local resident writing to formally object to the proposed redevelopment of ANZAC Village at 90 Veterans Parade, Narrabeen.
While I understand the need for appropriate seniors housing, the scale, height and density of what is being proposed is completely out of step with this area and will have lasting impacts on traffic, views, and the character of the neighbourhood. As a resident who lives with the day to day realities of these streets, I am very concerned about the consequences of this development if it proceeds in its current form.
Grounds for Objection
Traffic Congestion and Local Street Impacts
Traffic congestion is already a daily issue in and around Veterans Parade, Lantana Avenue and surrounding streets. These roads were never designed to support development of this scale.
The proposal introduces hundreds of new dwellings, a residential care facility, visitor traffic and a café, supported by extensive on site parking. This will inevitably lead to a significant increase in vehicle movement throughout the day, spilling into local streets and worsening congestion during peak periods and weekends.
Lantana Avenue already has limited on street parking, with restrictions on one side of the road. Increased density will only push parking and traffic pressure further into surrounding streets, making access more difficult for residents, visitors and emergency vehicles.
What concerns me most is that there has been no clear, holistic assessment of the full traffic impact once all stages are completed. Treating this as a staged development does not reduce the final burden on the road network — it merely delays it.
Building Height and Scale Are Completely Out of Character
The proposed buildings of up to eight storeys are entirely inappropriate for this location.
This area is defined by low density housing — predominantly one and two storey homes — and has remained that way for decades. Introducing buildings of this height will dramatically change the visual character of the neighbourhood and create a bulky, dominant presence that feels more like a town centre than a suburban residential area.
There is little to no effective transition between the new development and adjacent homes. From surrounding streets, the scale of these buildings will feel abrupt and overwhelming, permanently altering the look and feel of the area.
Loss of Views and Residential Amenity
Many residents currently enjoy open views across the existing ANZAC Village site. These views will be significantly and permanently obstructed by multi storey buildings.
The impact is not just visual — it affects natural light, outlook, and overall enjoyment of homes that people have invested in and lived in for many years. The application does not adequately address the seriousness of this view loss from the perspective of affected residents.
Once these buildings are constructed, the loss is irreversible.
Incompatibility with the Existing Streetscape
The character of Lantana Avenue and surrounding streets is defined by detached homes, trees, open space and a consistent low rise form. This proposal introduces an urban scale development that feels completely disconnected from its surroundings.
When viewed from nearby streets and across Narrabeen Lake, the development will appear dominant and visually intrusive, rather than integrated or respectful of the existing environment.
Tree Loss and Environmental Impact
The removal of a large number of mature trees — even at Stage 1 — will significantly reduce tree canopy and greenery in the area. Mature trees play an important role in shade, cooling, habitat and the overall character of the neighbourhood.
While replacement planting is proposed, young trees cannot compensate for the immediate and long term loss of established canopy.
Lack of Genuine Community Engagement
Residents most affected by this development were not meaningfully consulted before the application was lodged. Information was only provided once the proposal had been finalised and placed on exhibition.
For a project of this size and impact, early and genuine engagement should have occurred to ensure the outcome respected the surrounding community.
What I Am Asking the Department to Do
I respectfully ask the Department to:
• Refuse the application in its current form
• Require genuine community consultation before any revised proposal is considered
• Limit building heights along Lantana Avenue and visible interfaces to a maximum of two storeys
• Require a comprehensive traffic and parking assessment covering all stages of development
• Significantly reduce the overall scale and density of the proposal
• Require independent review of tree removal and canopy impacts
• Require a proper assessment of view loss and streetscape impacts
• Carefully consider emergency access and evacuation planning, especially given bushfire risk
This proposal would permanently alter the character of the neighbourhood and place unacceptable pressure on local streets, views and amenity. I urge the Department to give serious weight to the concerns of residents who will live with the consequences long after a decision is made.
Yours sincerely,
Seamus Tyler-Baxter
Address: 99 Veterans Parade, Collaroy Plateau, NSW, 2097
Email Address: [email protected]
Attachments
Tony Philps
Object
Tony Philps
Object
NARRABEEN
,
New South Wales
Message
I object to the proposal in general as it presents a significant over development of the site that is currently occupied with low rise residential buildings with pleasant open spaces between the buildings. I agree that some redevelopment of the site is needed , particularly the currently unoccupied residential care buildings.
My specific objection is to the stage 1 development where the following items will have a significant impact on the adjoining residents.
1. Proposed development will reduce the number of surface car parking spaces in the precinct servicing the swimming pool, TLC building, VB Residents building and Beersheba residences from about 80 spaces to 41. The 12 visitors space in the basement appear to be inaccessible to residents outside stage 1 as they are behind a security door. This loss of parking significantly affects the residents of Beersheba who will permanently loose almost ALL of their vehicle parking as the suggested parking to be provided 200 m away in the Milne Bay area is NOT viable for residents with mobility difficulties.
2. The design of the some of the new roads have been prepared with no consideration of the adjoining residents and in fact appear to be impossible to build while maintaining access to the residents of the VB Building and all Dardanelles residents with up to half a metre cut across to full width of the road and no room for a side track or deviation as the road has to remain accessible at all times as it is the only access to these areas. This could be achieved with a redesign and relocation of the road that would also reduce the impact on adjoining significant trees.
3. I object to the removal some of the facilities provided in the current TLC that do not appear to be replaced in the new centre, such as the sewing room, the computer room, the residents gymnasium, the medical facilities and the dedicated VB Residents lounge.
4. The proposed layout of the public/ foyer area of the Lifestyle area appears to be misconceived with e public entry on the opposite end of the foyer to the reception area, no space available for delivery/ removal vehicles to service the new apartments.
5. The almost total disregard of the vegetation retention policy with 30 percent to trees identified as being significant indicated to be removed.
6. The provision of the proposed OSD tanks under the new Edmonson drive pavement will effectively cut this access road for at least several days, totally unacceptable.
7. Although promised it would appear the the swimming pool facility will not be available for use once demolition/construction commences as the construction site access cuts off the access road to the pool, the sediment control fencing crosses through the the pool building and the basement excavation encroaches into the pool building structure.
The overall impact of this proposal both during construction and after completion will have a significant detrimental impact on the adjoining residents as the proposal is trying to squeeze too many apartments into the available space and would benefit from a reduction in the building footprint and a relocation/ redesign of the roads to provide additional parking for Beersheba residents and maintain access during construction.
My specific objection is to the stage 1 development where the following items will have a significant impact on the adjoining residents.
1. Proposed development will reduce the number of surface car parking spaces in the precinct servicing the swimming pool, TLC building, VB Residents building and Beersheba residences from about 80 spaces to 41. The 12 visitors space in the basement appear to be inaccessible to residents outside stage 1 as they are behind a security door. This loss of parking significantly affects the residents of Beersheba who will permanently loose almost ALL of their vehicle parking as the suggested parking to be provided 200 m away in the Milne Bay area is NOT viable for residents with mobility difficulties.
2. The design of the some of the new roads have been prepared with no consideration of the adjoining residents and in fact appear to be impossible to build while maintaining access to the residents of the VB Building and all Dardanelles residents with up to half a metre cut across to full width of the road and no room for a side track or deviation as the road has to remain accessible at all times as it is the only access to these areas. This could be achieved with a redesign and relocation of the road that would also reduce the impact on adjoining significant trees.
3. I object to the removal some of the facilities provided in the current TLC that do not appear to be replaced in the new centre, such as the sewing room, the computer room, the residents gymnasium, the medical facilities and the dedicated VB Residents lounge.
4. The proposed layout of the public/ foyer area of the Lifestyle area appears to be misconceived with e public entry on the opposite end of the foyer to the reception area, no space available for delivery/ removal vehicles to service the new apartments.
5. The almost total disregard of the vegetation retention policy with 30 percent to trees identified as being significant indicated to be removed.
6. The provision of the proposed OSD tanks under the new Edmonson drive pavement will effectively cut this access road for at least several days, totally unacceptable.
7. Although promised it would appear the the swimming pool facility will not be available for use once demolition/construction commences as the construction site access cuts off the access road to the pool, the sediment control fencing crosses through the the pool building and the basement excavation encroaches into the pool building structure.
The overall impact of this proposal both during construction and after completion will have a significant detrimental impact on the adjoining residents as the proposal is trying to squeeze too many apartments into the available space and would benefit from a reduction in the building footprint and a relocation/ redesign of the roads to provide additional parking for Beersheba residents and maintain access during construction.
Name Withheld
Object
Name Withheld
Object
Narrabeen
,
New South Wales
Message
I am writing to ask you to assist to obtain a fair deal and for current residents of
RSL Village at Narrabeen
My Situation
I am now 79 years old. I moved here 10 years ago. I am entirely alone
and have permanent, chronic lung disease.
I was worried by pollution and over development in the Inner West where I lived.
I was assured of safety and support by RSL and committed my life savings to RSL.
I understood that there was protection under the Retirement Villages Act and other legislation.
10 years ago the village was a stand alone entity in a calm, clean environment
with a good ratio of Residential Care homes.
RSL has since become a large building development conglomerate.
The proposed development on this site will include 27 buildings the majority up to eight stories high.
With very high, even multi million $ entry fees, ever growing levees, government subsidies,
donations from RSL affiliates and non profit /charity status this organisation should be focused first
on looking after old people
Closure of facilities
170 Residential beds have been closed recently.
Demolition of the 4 Residential homes will occur in stage one of the proposal
These closures are not accounted for in new RSL plan which includes a further hostel closure.
Availability is very limited even for current residents and the number of residents
is continually rising. Average age 85 many well over 90
The majority of newcomers clearly expect entry to residential aged care over time,
despite the best laid plans about living at home.{This assumes high levels of available staff.)
People in my building have been forced to move to other Aged Care Facilities in other suburbs
away from friends. They have to start again in very poor health.
This imposes a new, large financial burden as well as emotional trauma for family and friends.
The waiting time for Residential Care Beds in Australia is now one year
There should be more attention to this, early in this plan rather than
high rise buildings for much younger fit people.(they will grow old—even older in the future.)
Proposed Building Stage one
I live in Villiers Bretonneux the central core of Stage 1 of the plan
WORKS
.Demolition of major buildings on three sides
.Glorious trees immediately adjacent to be felled.
.New roads built up to balcony railings
THEN
.major excavation work to provide under ground parking and five and six story buildings.
.The structures, scaffolding, giant cranes and works to be within aprox 50 metres. of this building.
.No access for ambulances, carers, cleaners or family.
Severe pollution
At xmas we were warned not to dig here due to contaminants including asbestos.
The major tragedy including deaths at RPA hospital, caused by mould
in the adjacent building site is a distinct possibility here.
Health outcome
I am being treated for severe depression
Having committed my life savings to RSL 10 years ago there is no way out.
RSL management state that we will stay where we are, on the site.
The entire focus of planning and vast publicity is fifteen years ahead with no care for current people.
RSL Village at Narrabeen
My Situation
I am now 79 years old. I moved here 10 years ago. I am entirely alone
and have permanent, chronic lung disease.
I was worried by pollution and over development in the Inner West where I lived.
I was assured of safety and support by RSL and committed my life savings to RSL.
I understood that there was protection under the Retirement Villages Act and other legislation.
10 years ago the village was a stand alone entity in a calm, clean environment
with a good ratio of Residential Care homes.
RSL has since become a large building development conglomerate.
The proposed development on this site will include 27 buildings the majority up to eight stories high.
With very high, even multi million $ entry fees, ever growing levees, government subsidies,
donations from RSL affiliates and non profit /charity status this organisation should be focused first
on looking after old people
Closure of facilities
170 Residential beds have been closed recently.
Demolition of the 4 Residential homes will occur in stage one of the proposal
These closures are not accounted for in new RSL plan which includes a further hostel closure.
Availability is very limited even for current residents and the number of residents
is continually rising. Average age 85 many well over 90
The majority of newcomers clearly expect entry to residential aged care over time,
despite the best laid plans about living at home.{This assumes high levels of available staff.)
People in my building have been forced to move to other Aged Care Facilities in other suburbs
away from friends. They have to start again in very poor health.
This imposes a new, large financial burden as well as emotional trauma for family and friends.
The waiting time for Residential Care Beds in Australia is now one year
There should be more attention to this, early in this plan rather than
high rise buildings for much younger fit people.(they will grow old—even older in the future.)
Proposed Building Stage one
I live in Villiers Bretonneux the central core of Stage 1 of the plan
WORKS
.Demolition of major buildings on three sides
.Glorious trees immediately adjacent to be felled.
.New roads built up to balcony railings
THEN
.major excavation work to provide under ground parking and five and six story buildings.
.The structures, scaffolding, giant cranes and works to be within aprox 50 metres. of this building.
.No access for ambulances, carers, cleaners or family.
Severe pollution
At xmas we were warned not to dig here due to contaminants including asbestos.
The major tragedy including deaths at RPA hospital, caused by mould
in the adjacent building site is a distinct possibility here.
Health outcome
I am being treated for severe depression
Having committed my life savings to RSL 10 years ago there is no way out.
RSL management state that we will stay where we are, on the site.
The entire focus of planning and vast publicity is fifteen years ahead with no care for current people.