Wesley College
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Wesley College
Object
University of Sydney
,
New South Wales
Message
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Susannah Dale
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Susannah Dale
Object
Darlington
,
New South Wales
Message
Dear Mr McManus
Further to my previous emails I would like to make the following comments:
Transport and Access
It seems to me that the issues of transport and access have not been addressed. I quote from the University website:
TRANSPORT AND MOBILITY
The University is currently developing a Sustainable Transport and Mobility Plan (STAMP) to encourage the use of public transport by students, staff and visitors.
The STAMP initially focuses on the Camperdown and congestion and avoid conflicts amongst pedestrians, cyclists, and people using wheelchairs and mobility aids
· better manage car parking demand;
· provide socially equitable strategies to address specific car parking, transport and mobility of people with special requirements
· provide accessible, affordable and quality cycling infrastructure for students and staff
· improve connections to the City's bicycle and public transport networks
· reduce single occupancy car trips
· reduce vehicle carbon emissions associated with travelling to and from campus.
This seems to be an optimistic statement of what they would like to achieve. There doesn't seem to be an effective plan in place for these problems.
The access to the University from Redfern Station is already congested and dangerous. In addition, Sydney City Council is undertaking work in Abercrombie Street which will improve it visually but which will reduce space for pedestrians, cars and bicycles. Ivy Street and Shepherd Lane will be one-way north. Cars driving south on Ivy Street will have to turn into Lander Street which is quite narrow, and enter Shepherd Street near the Abercrombie Street crossing. They will have to queue to turn into Shepherd Street because of other traffic attempting to go through to Abercrombie Street and because of the large numbers of students entering the university at this point. (Many students walk up Lander Street as the footpaths are narrow.) At this point the University (or Sydney Council) proposes to widen the footpath. There is already a slight kink in Shepherd Street making it narrow, and it is difficult to see cyclists and approaching vehicles when turning into Shepherd St.
In addition, the University proposes to have a Services Building at this point, with trucks entering and leaving. It is proposed that deliveries to University buildings will be from this building via Shepherd Street and the University gateway near the Shepherd Street car park. Shepherd Street is part of the Sydney Council Cycleway and is not really wide enough to safely accommodate two parked cars and two cars passing each other.
On one of the appendices to the CIP there is a note that the Shepherd St entrance at the end of Calder Road, where there is a grove of tallowood trees, is to be used for car and coach drop off. I understand this is not correct.
Building proposed for site of tallowood grove:
The multistorey building proposed for this site is shown to have "nil setback". I understand this does not mean the building will be on the footpath but describes the building envelope. There is already a blank brick wall on the University boundary which is often graffitied and where rubbish is dumped. Students sit on steps there to smoke and leave the area littered with cigarette butts, food wrappings and bottles. It has been suggested that the part of Shepherd Street further down can be landscaped but this will not help the residents in the immediate vicinity of the tallowood grove if a multistorey building, with air conditioning plant etc, is built on the boundary.
I feel the rights and needs of the local community need to be taken into consideration, as would be the case with any other commercial development where a contribution is made to infrastructure by the developer. The University has said this on their website:
Our vision for the future is to create a campus environment that meets the recreational, cultural, research, and educational needs of those who work and study here, and for those who live in the surrounding community.
However the scale of the redevelopment proposed needs more planning and consideration of the effect on the local community. Most of all, there needs to be consultation and cooperation between the State Government (the Central to Eveleigh project), Sydney City Council and the University. There should be provision in the plans for the replacement of the bridge at the western end of Redfern Station, and a tunnel for pedestrians and cyclists from Redfern Station to the Maze Crescent and Victoria Park, linking Redfern to Broadway and the proposed light rail.
Before any plans for redevelopment are settled, there needs to be a solution to the existing problems which are being caused by the volume of people travelling to the University, and the problems which will be generated by the development.
Susannah Dale
Further to my previous emails I would like to make the following comments:
Transport and Access
It seems to me that the issues of transport and access have not been addressed. I quote from the University website:
TRANSPORT AND MOBILITY
The University is currently developing a Sustainable Transport and Mobility Plan (STAMP) to encourage the use of public transport by students, staff and visitors.
The STAMP initially focuses on the Camperdown and congestion and avoid conflicts amongst pedestrians, cyclists, and people using wheelchairs and mobility aids
· better manage car parking demand;
· provide socially equitable strategies to address specific car parking, transport and mobility of people with special requirements
· provide accessible, affordable and quality cycling infrastructure for students and staff
· improve connections to the City's bicycle and public transport networks
· reduce single occupancy car trips
· reduce vehicle carbon emissions associated with travelling to and from campus.
This seems to be an optimistic statement of what they would like to achieve. There doesn't seem to be an effective plan in place for these problems.
The access to the University from Redfern Station is already congested and dangerous. In addition, Sydney City Council is undertaking work in Abercrombie Street which will improve it visually but which will reduce space for pedestrians, cars and bicycles. Ivy Street and Shepherd Lane will be one-way north. Cars driving south on Ivy Street will have to turn into Lander Street which is quite narrow, and enter Shepherd Street near the Abercrombie Street crossing. They will have to queue to turn into Shepherd Street because of other traffic attempting to go through to Abercrombie Street and because of the large numbers of students entering the university at this point. (Many students walk up Lander Street as the footpaths are narrow.) At this point the University (or Sydney Council) proposes to widen the footpath. There is already a slight kink in Shepherd Street making it narrow, and it is difficult to see cyclists and approaching vehicles when turning into Shepherd St.
In addition, the University proposes to have a Services Building at this point, with trucks entering and leaving. It is proposed that deliveries to University buildings will be from this building via Shepherd Street and the University gateway near the Shepherd Street car park. Shepherd Street is part of the Sydney Council Cycleway and is not really wide enough to safely accommodate two parked cars and two cars passing each other.
On one of the appendices to the CIP there is a note that the Shepherd St entrance at the end of Calder Road, where there is a grove of tallowood trees, is to be used for car and coach drop off. I understand this is not correct.
Building proposed for site of tallowood grove:
The multistorey building proposed for this site is shown to have "nil setback". I understand this does not mean the building will be on the footpath but describes the building envelope. There is already a blank brick wall on the University boundary which is often graffitied and where rubbish is dumped. Students sit on steps there to smoke and leave the area littered with cigarette butts, food wrappings and bottles. It has been suggested that the part of Shepherd Street further down can be landscaped but this will not help the residents in the immediate vicinity of the tallowood grove if a multistorey building, with air conditioning plant etc, is built on the boundary.
I feel the rights and needs of the local community need to be taken into consideration, as would be the case with any other commercial development where a contribution is made to infrastructure by the developer. The University has said this on their website:
Our vision for the future is to create a campus environment that meets the recreational, cultural, research, and educational needs of those who work and study here, and for those who live in the surrounding community.
However the scale of the redevelopment proposed needs more planning and consideration of the effect on the local community. Most of all, there needs to be consultation and cooperation between the State Government (the Central to Eveleigh project), Sydney City Council and the University. There should be provision in the plans for the replacement of the bridge at the western end of Redfern Station, and a tunnel for pedestrians and cyclists from Redfern Station to the Maze Crescent and Victoria Park, linking Redfern to Broadway and the proposed light rail.
Before any plans for redevelopment are settled, there needs to be a solution to the existing problems which are being caused by the volume of people travelling to the University, and the problems which will be generated by the development.
Susannah Dale
Robert Viller
Object
Robert Viller
Object
Darlington
,
New South Wales
Message
Dear Mr McManus,
I am a resident of Darlington and I have been granted an extension until 31 March 2014 to make a submission in regard to the above State Significant Development (SSD) application.
I object to the above development application for the following reasons –
No Community Consultation
I object to the University NOT consulting with the local community and failing to comply with the following Director General's requirement - "During the preparation of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), consultation must be undertaken with community groups and affected landowners.
Height, Scale and Location of Buildings
I object to this massive building program which would increase floor space by a massive 68% from 555,600m2 to 937,800m2 with building heights of up to 19 storeys.
The height and bulk of the proposed buildings are too great for the low rise heritage conservation residential precinct in which the University sits.
I object to the proposed 3 storey building in Shepherd Street and the “multidisciplinary building” opposite the Sports Centre both of which will overlook residents homes in Shepherd Street, Calder Road, Lander Street, Boundary Street and Abercrombie Street.
The University should be required to create green buffer zones between its buildings and residential buildings.
Separate Development Applications
I object to all new buildings and any refurbishments of existing buildings within the Campus Improvement Program (CIP) being approved under this one SSD.
Each new building or refurbishment of an existing building should be subject to individual development applications so that the dimensions, scale and use of each building is specified and conditions are imposed upon approval.
All new buildings should be set back from the street and located well within the University boundaries.
Heritage
I object to the University's proposal to completely infill the backyards of every heritage listed terrace house (bar 3) from 86 - 130 Darlington Road with 3 storey extensions.
The National Trust has given these terraces an "A" rating - "highly intact". The University should not be allowed to degrade the heritage value of these terraces which are very close to the Golden Grove Conservation Area.
Noise
I object to the potential increase in noise from plant equipment such as large 24/7 air conditioners and cooling towers on proposed University buildings close to residents' homes.
The University should establish the cumulative noise impact of ALL of its existing buildings before permission is given for further developments to proceed. The University should demonstrate that the cumulative noise impact of all of its buildings complies with environmental legislation before permission for further developments is given.
Substantial green buffer zones should be created between new university buildings and residents to help reduce the impact of noise.
Infrastructure
I object to increasing the student population from 49,500 to 60,000 by 2020 because the local infrastructure cannot even cope with the existing number of people coming into the area as it is. The plan should be withdrawn until local infrastructure, including footpaths and access to Redfern Station, are improved to cope with the increased population.
Vegetation
I object to the destruction of the Darlington Eucalypt Grove in Shepherd Street and replacing it with a 3 storey building overlooking residents' houses. This is one of the only remaining open spaces on the edge of the Darlington campus and should be retained to provide a green buffer zone between the University and the adjoining residential area.
The University's Ecological Assessment recommends: "Avoid removal of mature trees and protection of trees in proximity to building/refurbishment sites."
Traffic and Parking
I object to the introduction of large car parks on the Darlington campus. With the projected huge increase in the University population coming to the Darlington campus to use these car parks will come the associated problem of traffic congestion on residential streets. The University has not addressed this problem at all.
University staff and students unable or unwilling to use these car parks will end up competing for parking on residential streets in Darlington. It will mean that residents' parking is severely reduced and will also compound the traffic congestion in the area.
I object to the University removing the ability of students and staff to drive through the campus. University traffic should be arriving at and departing from the campus via the main arterial roads such as City Road and Parramatta Road not via the residential streets of Darlington.
The University should be required to encourage short term parking on the larger Camperdown campus not on the Darlington campus.
Currently, University staff and students are taking up much of the parking on residential streets. Residents, and especially elderly residents, should be able to park within reasonable walking distance from their homes.
I object to Butlin Avenue becoming a shared zone between traffic and pedestrians. It is one of the main roads in and out of Darlington for vehicles. As a shared zone it would create an unsafe environment for pedestrians and drivers alike.
Service Centres
I object to the proposed Service Centre on Shepherd Street as it will bring heavy, loud vehicles onto a residential street. As it will be positioned on the narrowest part of this street, it will also create a dangerous traffic hazard.
A more appropriate location for the Service Centre would be near the intersection of Shepherd and Cleveland Streets. This would mean the heavy service vehicles could enter and exit from the main arterial road of Cleveland Street and would therefore be kept off residential streets.
I object to many aspects of this SSD application.
As a resident of Darlington I have not been given nearly enough time to study and comprehend such a huge and complex document as the CIP.
The University should consult properly with the community specifically in regard to the CIP as they were required to do by the Director General. I look forward to proper consultation with the University prior to this application being approved. During this consultation process residents' views should be listened to and acted on appropriately by the University.
This huge and massive development program will have a major effect on myself, my family and the Darlington community. It is not something which I as a resident of Darlington take lightly.
Yours faithfully,
Robert Viller
I am a resident of Darlington and I have been granted an extension until 31 March 2014 to make a submission in regard to the above State Significant Development (SSD) application.
I object to the above development application for the following reasons –
No Community Consultation
I object to the University NOT consulting with the local community and failing to comply with the following Director General's requirement - "During the preparation of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), consultation must be undertaken with community groups and affected landowners.
Height, Scale and Location of Buildings
I object to this massive building program which would increase floor space by a massive 68% from 555,600m2 to 937,800m2 with building heights of up to 19 storeys.
The height and bulk of the proposed buildings are too great for the low rise heritage conservation residential precinct in which the University sits.
I object to the proposed 3 storey building in Shepherd Street and the “multidisciplinary building” opposite the Sports Centre both of which will overlook residents homes in Shepherd Street, Calder Road, Lander Street, Boundary Street and Abercrombie Street.
The University should be required to create green buffer zones between its buildings and residential buildings.
Separate Development Applications
I object to all new buildings and any refurbishments of existing buildings within the Campus Improvement Program (CIP) being approved under this one SSD.
Each new building or refurbishment of an existing building should be subject to individual development applications so that the dimensions, scale and use of each building is specified and conditions are imposed upon approval.
All new buildings should be set back from the street and located well within the University boundaries.
Heritage
I object to the University's proposal to completely infill the backyards of every heritage listed terrace house (bar 3) from 86 - 130 Darlington Road with 3 storey extensions.
The National Trust has given these terraces an "A" rating - "highly intact". The University should not be allowed to degrade the heritage value of these terraces which are very close to the Golden Grove Conservation Area.
Noise
I object to the potential increase in noise from plant equipment such as large 24/7 air conditioners and cooling towers on proposed University buildings close to residents' homes.
The University should establish the cumulative noise impact of ALL of its existing buildings before permission is given for further developments to proceed. The University should demonstrate that the cumulative noise impact of all of its buildings complies with environmental legislation before permission for further developments is given.
Substantial green buffer zones should be created between new university buildings and residents to help reduce the impact of noise.
Infrastructure
I object to increasing the student population from 49,500 to 60,000 by 2020 because the local infrastructure cannot even cope with the existing number of people coming into the area as it is. The plan should be withdrawn until local infrastructure, including footpaths and access to Redfern Station, are improved to cope with the increased population.
Vegetation
I object to the destruction of the Darlington Eucalypt Grove in Shepherd Street and replacing it with a 3 storey building overlooking residents' houses. This is one of the only remaining open spaces on the edge of the Darlington campus and should be retained to provide a green buffer zone between the University and the adjoining residential area.
The University's Ecological Assessment recommends: "Avoid removal of mature trees and protection of trees in proximity to building/refurbishment sites."
Traffic and Parking
I object to the introduction of large car parks on the Darlington campus. With the projected huge increase in the University population coming to the Darlington campus to use these car parks will come the associated problem of traffic congestion on residential streets. The University has not addressed this problem at all.
University staff and students unable or unwilling to use these car parks will end up competing for parking on residential streets in Darlington. It will mean that residents' parking is severely reduced and will also compound the traffic congestion in the area.
I object to the University removing the ability of students and staff to drive through the campus. University traffic should be arriving at and departing from the campus via the main arterial roads such as City Road and Parramatta Road not via the residential streets of Darlington.
The University should be required to encourage short term parking on the larger Camperdown campus not on the Darlington campus.
Currently, University staff and students are taking up much of the parking on residential streets. Residents, and especially elderly residents, should be able to park within reasonable walking distance from their homes.
I object to Butlin Avenue becoming a shared zone between traffic and pedestrians. It is one of the main roads in and out of Darlington for vehicles. As a shared zone it would create an unsafe environment for pedestrians and drivers alike.
Service Centres
I object to the proposed Service Centre on Shepherd Street as it will bring heavy, loud vehicles onto a residential street. As it will be positioned on the narrowest part of this street, it will also create a dangerous traffic hazard.
A more appropriate location for the Service Centre would be near the intersection of Shepherd and Cleveland Streets. This would mean the heavy service vehicles could enter and exit from the main arterial road of Cleveland Street and would therefore be kept off residential streets.
I object to many aspects of this SSD application.
As a resident of Darlington I have not been given nearly enough time to study and comprehend such a huge and complex document as the CIP.
The University should consult properly with the community specifically in regard to the CIP as they were required to do by the Director General. I look forward to proper consultation with the University prior to this application being approved. During this consultation process residents' views should be listened to and acted on appropriately by the University.
This huge and massive development program will have a major effect on myself, my family and the Darlington community. It is not something which I as a resident of Darlington take lightly.
Yours faithfully,
Robert Viller
Residents Acting In Darlingtons Defence (RAIDD)
Object
Residents Acting In Darlingtons Defence (RAIDD)
Object
Darlington
,
New South Wales
Message
Dear Peter,
We have been granted an extension until 31 March 2014 to make a submission in regard to the above State Significant Development (SSD) application.
We object to the above development application for the following reasons -
1. Failure to comply with Director-General's Requirements
We object to the fact that the University of Sydney has failed to comply with the Director-General's Requirement to consult in the preparation of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) with the local community and in particular with this group, RAIDD.
In the Director-General's Requirements (SSD 13_6123 DGRs.pdf and Modified SSD 13_6123 DGRs Reissued 23.10.2013.pdf) which are included in the documents there is one which says "During the preparation of the EIS, consultation must be undertaken with the relevant Commonwealth Government, State or local authorities, service providers, community groups and affected landowners. In particular you must consult with: ...RAIDD - Residents Acting In Darlington's Defence."
University of Sydney did not consult with the local community prior to submitting its application for Campus Improvement Program 2014-2020 for Camperdown-Darlington.
Furthermore, in Appendix N - Consultation Outcomes, in the document Appendix N_Consultation.pdf, names of RAIDD members are listed as Community Stakeholders, even though they have never been consulted by the University of Sydney in regard to the Environmental Impact Statement of the Campus Improvement Program as directed by the Director-General.
In Table 11 in the EIS the University has listed `Issues Raised' and `CIP Response' as though the issues have been raised in regard to the CIP. However, we repeat that we have never been consulted about the CIP and to present issues raised in regard to other matters as though we have been is grossly misleading and dishonest.
This Development Application should not be considered by Planning NSW at all. The University should be instructed to abide by the Director-General's Requirements and consult properly with the local community, taking into account any issues raised and showing the changes made to address each issue, before resubmitting a new State Significant Development Application to Planning NSW.
2. Time to review Application No: SSD_6123
The University lodged 146 documents in support of its State Significant Development (SSD) application for its Campus Improvement Program 2014-2020. Residents received notice of this application at the beginning of February which gave them until 28 February 2014 to submit a response to Planning NSW. Many residents in Darlington did not receive a notice at all.
Many of the residents have families and full-time jobs and therefore had very little time left in their busy schedules in which to understand something of this magnitude. Giving residents only 4 weeks to absorb a wealth of information, understand the implications it may have on the surrounding community, and formulate a meaningful response was simply unfair and unacceptable.
Clearly, the University had been preparing all these documents over many months and even years. In all that time the University had not consulted with local residents, the people who will be directly affected by what they are proposing in this SSD application, about the CIP in any way whatsoever.
The University said that it will consider submissions up until 31 March 2014. It also put on 3 more token Community Information Sessions during that time. We submit that this was too little and too late.
3. Height, Scale and Location of Buildings
We object to this massive building program which would increase floor space by a massive 68% from 555,600m2 to 937,800m2 with building heights of up to 19 storeys.
The height and bulk of the proposed buildings are too great for the low rise heritage conservation residential precinct in which the University sits.
We object to the proposed 3 storey building in Shepherd Street and the "multidisciplinary building" opposite the Sports Centre both of which will overlook residents homes in Shepherd Street, Calder Road, Lander Street, Boundary Street and Abercrombie Street.
We object to the proposed development of the Regiment Building which will be up to 9 storeys in height. It will result in significant overshadowing of the public housing in Golden Grove Street and also of the Darlington Public School playground.
The University should be required to scale down the size of its proposed buildings and to create green buffer zones between its buildings and residential buildings.
All new buildings should be set back from the street and located well within the University boundaries.
4. Separate Development Applications
We object to all new buildings and any refurbishments of existing buildings within the Campus Improvement Program (CIP) being approved under this one SSD.
Each new building or refurbishment of an existing building should be subject to individual development applications so that the dimensions, scale and use of each building is specified and conditions are imposed upon approval.
5. Population Increase and Infrastructure
We object to the proposed increase in student population from 49,500 to 60,000 by 2020 because the local infrastructure cannot cope with the existing number of people. The plan should be withdrawn until local infrastructure, including footpaths and access to Redfern Station, are improved to cope with the increased population.
6. Vegetation
We object to the University of Sydney's plan to bulldoze Darlington's Eucalypt Grove, an important strand of eucalyptus trees on the campus Shepherd Street car park facing houses in Shepherd Street and Calder Road, and to replace it with a substantial 3 storey building overlooking resident's homes.
The Eucalypt Grove has very significant aesthetic values and provides a refuge for native birds and other wildlife. It has a green hedge along the boundary and provides the only greenery left along the western side of Shepherd St. It is a wonderful asset to the University and the Darlington area.
The University's Ecological Assessment recommends: "Avoid removal of mature trees and protection of trees in proximity to building/refurbishment sites."
7. Noise
We object to the potential increase in noise from plant equipment such as large 24/7 air conditioners and cooling towers on proposed University buildings close to residents' homes.
The University should establish the cumulative noise impact of ALL of its existing buildings before permission is given for further developments to proceed. The University should demonstrate that the cumulative noise impact of all of its buildings complies with environmental legislation before permission for further developments is given.
The NSW Protection of the Environment Operations Act restricts a developer from generating operational noise greater than 5 decibels above the normal background noise level. If the true cumulative impact of University noise were discovered we believe that it is likely that the University would be in breach of the NSW Protection of the Environment Operations Act on a daily basis even without this development.
When the University's former Contract Administration Manager - Mechanical Services, was asked by a resident if all plant equipment complies with environmental laws, he said he didn't know and indicated that it was not his responsibility to find out because the equipment was installed and maintained by outside contractors. This is not acceptable behaviour by the University.
The University should develop a public noise impact policy and maintain effective governance arrangements which ensure compliance with the policy. Residents should not have to complain about each new noise issue before corrective action is taken, if any is taken at all.
Substantial green buffer zones should be created between new university buildings and residents to help reduce the impact of noise.
We also object to the proposed use of Gadigal Green for social events because the noise from such events will adversely affect the amenity of residents living in surrounding streets.
8. Traffic and Parking
We object to the introduction of large car parks on the Darlington campus. With the projected huge increase in the University population coming to the Darlington campus to use these car parks will come the associated problem of traffic congestion on residential streets. The University has not addressed this problem at all.
University staff and students unable or unwilling to use these car parks will end up competing for parking on residential streets in Darlington. It will mean that residents' parking is severely reduced and will also compound the traffic congestion in the area.
We object to the University removing the ability of students and staff to drive through the campus. University traffic should be arriving at and departing from the campus via the main arterial roads such as City Road and Parramatta Road not via the residential streets of Darlington.
The University should be required to encourage short term parking on the larger Camperdown campus not on the Darlington campus.
Currently, University staff and students are taking up much of the parking on residential streets. Residents, and especially elderly residents, should be able to park within reasonable walking distance from their homes.
We object to Butlin Avenue becoming a shared zone between traffic and pedestrians. It is one of the main roads in and out of Darlington for vehicles. As a shared zone it would create an unsafe environment for pedestrians and drivers alike.
9. Heritage
We object to the University's proposal to completely infill the backyards of every heritage listed terrace house (bar 3) from 86 - 130 Darlington Road with 3 storey extensions.
The National Trust has given these terraces an "A" rating - "highly intact". The University should not be allowed to degrade the heritage value of these terraces which are very close to the Golden Grove Conservation Area.
10. Service Centres
We object to the proposed Service Centre on Shepherd Street as it will bring heavy, loud vehicles onto a residential street. As it will be positioned on the narrowest part of this street, it will also create a dangerous traffic hazard.
A more appropriate location for the Service Centre would be near the intersection of Shepherd and Cleveland Streets. This would mean the heavy service vehicles could enter and exit from the main arterial road of Cleveland Street and would therefore be kept off residential streets.
Conclusion
Residents of Darlington have not been given nearly enough time to study and comprehend such a huge and complex document as the CIP. The University has also completely ignored the requirements of the Director General in regard to community consultation.
This Development Application should not be considered by Planning NSW at all. The University should be instructed to abide by the Director-General's Requirements and consult properly with the local community, taking into account any issues raised and showing the changes made to address each issue, before resubmitting a new State Significant Development Application to the Department.
We would be very disappointed if Planning NSW supports this University development application when it has contravened the Department's own requirements.
Let it not be forgotten, the University of Sydney's Darlington Campus sits in a residential precinct; residential Darlington does not sit in a University precinct.
Yours faithfully,
RAIDD (Residents Acting In Darlington's Defence).
We have been granted an extension until 31 March 2014 to make a submission in regard to the above State Significant Development (SSD) application.
We object to the above development application for the following reasons -
1. Failure to comply with Director-General's Requirements
We object to the fact that the University of Sydney has failed to comply with the Director-General's Requirement to consult in the preparation of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) with the local community and in particular with this group, RAIDD.
In the Director-General's Requirements (SSD 13_6123 DGRs.pdf and Modified SSD 13_6123 DGRs Reissued 23.10.2013.pdf) which are included in the documents there is one which says "During the preparation of the EIS, consultation must be undertaken with the relevant Commonwealth Government, State or local authorities, service providers, community groups and affected landowners. In particular you must consult with: ...RAIDD - Residents Acting In Darlington's Defence."
University of Sydney did not consult with the local community prior to submitting its application for Campus Improvement Program 2014-2020 for Camperdown-Darlington.
Furthermore, in Appendix N - Consultation Outcomes, in the document Appendix N_Consultation.pdf, names of RAIDD members are listed as Community Stakeholders, even though they have never been consulted by the University of Sydney in regard to the Environmental Impact Statement of the Campus Improvement Program as directed by the Director-General.
In Table 11 in the EIS the University has listed `Issues Raised' and `CIP Response' as though the issues have been raised in regard to the CIP. However, we repeat that we have never been consulted about the CIP and to present issues raised in regard to other matters as though we have been is grossly misleading and dishonest.
This Development Application should not be considered by Planning NSW at all. The University should be instructed to abide by the Director-General's Requirements and consult properly with the local community, taking into account any issues raised and showing the changes made to address each issue, before resubmitting a new State Significant Development Application to Planning NSW.
2. Time to review Application No: SSD_6123
The University lodged 146 documents in support of its State Significant Development (SSD) application for its Campus Improvement Program 2014-2020. Residents received notice of this application at the beginning of February which gave them until 28 February 2014 to submit a response to Planning NSW. Many residents in Darlington did not receive a notice at all.
Many of the residents have families and full-time jobs and therefore had very little time left in their busy schedules in which to understand something of this magnitude. Giving residents only 4 weeks to absorb a wealth of information, understand the implications it may have on the surrounding community, and formulate a meaningful response was simply unfair and unacceptable.
Clearly, the University had been preparing all these documents over many months and even years. In all that time the University had not consulted with local residents, the people who will be directly affected by what they are proposing in this SSD application, about the CIP in any way whatsoever.
The University said that it will consider submissions up until 31 March 2014. It also put on 3 more token Community Information Sessions during that time. We submit that this was too little and too late.
3. Height, Scale and Location of Buildings
We object to this massive building program which would increase floor space by a massive 68% from 555,600m2 to 937,800m2 with building heights of up to 19 storeys.
The height and bulk of the proposed buildings are too great for the low rise heritage conservation residential precinct in which the University sits.
We object to the proposed 3 storey building in Shepherd Street and the "multidisciplinary building" opposite the Sports Centre both of which will overlook residents homes in Shepherd Street, Calder Road, Lander Street, Boundary Street and Abercrombie Street.
We object to the proposed development of the Regiment Building which will be up to 9 storeys in height. It will result in significant overshadowing of the public housing in Golden Grove Street and also of the Darlington Public School playground.
The University should be required to scale down the size of its proposed buildings and to create green buffer zones between its buildings and residential buildings.
All new buildings should be set back from the street and located well within the University boundaries.
4. Separate Development Applications
We object to all new buildings and any refurbishments of existing buildings within the Campus Improvement Program (CIP) being approved under this one SSD.
Each new building or refurbishment of an existing building should be subject to individual development applications so that the dimensions, scale and use of each building is specified and conditions are imposed upon approval.
5. Population Increase and Infrastructure
We object to the proposed increase in student population from 49,500 to 60,000 by 2020 because the local infrastructure cannot cope with the existing number of people. The plan should be withdrawn until local infrastructure, including footpaths and access to Redfern Station, are improved to cope with the increased population.
6. Vegetation
We object to the University of Sydney's plan to bulldoze Darlington's Eucalypt Grove, an important strand of eucalyptus trees on the campus Shepherd Street car park facing houses in Shepherd Street and Calder Road, and to replace it with a substantial 3 storey building overlooking resident's homes.
The Eucalypt Grove has very significant aesthetic values and provides a refuge for native birds and other wildlife. It has a green hedge along the boundary and provides the only greenery left along the western side of Shepherd St. It is a wonderful asset to the University and the Darlington area.
The University's Ecological Assessment recommends: "Avoid removal of mature trees and protection of trees in proximity to building/refurbishment sites."
7. Noise
We object to the potential increase in noise from plant equipment such as large 24/7 air conditioners and cooling towers on proposed University buildings close to residents' homes.
The University should establish the cumulative noise impact of ALL of its existing buildings before permission is given for further developments to proceed. The University should demonstrate that the cumulative noise impact of all of its buildings complies with environmental legislation before permission for further developments is given.
The NSW Protection of the Environment Operations Act restricts a developer from generating operational noise greater than 5 decibels above the normal background noise level. If the true cumulative impact of University noise were discovered we believe that it is likely that the University would be in breach of the NSW Protection of the Environment Operations Act on a daily basis even without this development.
When the University's former Contract Administration Manager - Mechanical Services, was asked by a resident if all plant equipment complies with environmental laws, he said he didn't know and indicated that it was not his responsibility to find out because the equipment was installed and maintained by outside contractors. This is not acceptable behaviour by the University.
The University should develop a public noise impact policy and maintain effective governance arrangements which ensure compliance with the policy. Residents should not have to complain about each new noise issue before corrective action is taken, if any is taken at all.
Substantial green buffer zones should be created between new university buildings and residents to help reduce the impact of noise.
We also object to the proposed use of Gadigal Green for social events because the noise from such events will adversely affect the amenity of residents living in surrounding streets.
8. Traffic and Parking
We object to the introduction of large car parks on the Darlington campus. With the projected huge increase in the University population coming to the Darlington campus to use these car parks will come the associated problem of traffic congestion on residential streets. The University has not addressed this problem at all.
University staff and students unable or unwilling to use these car parks will end up competing for parking on residential streets in Darlington. It will mean that residents' parking is severely reduced and will also compound the traffic congestion in the area.
We object to the University removing the ability of students and staff to drive through the campus. University traffic should be arriving at and departing from the campus via the main arterial roads such as City Road and Parramatta Road not via the residential streets of Darlington.
The University should be required to encourage short term parking on the larger Camperdown campus not on the Darlington campus.
Currently, University staff and students are taking up much of the parking on residential streets. Residents, and especially elderly residents, should be able to park within reasonable walking distance from their homes.
We object to Butlin Avenue becoming a shared zone between traffic and pedestrians. It is one of the main roads in and out of Darlington for vehicles. As a shared zone it would create an unsafe environment for pedestrians and drivers alike.
9. Heritage
We object to the University's proposal to completely infill the backyards of every heritage listed terrace house (bar 3) from 86 - 130 Darlington Road with 3 storey extensions.
The National Trust has given these terraces an "A" rating - "highly intact". The University should not be allowed to degrade the heritage value of these terraces which are very close to the Golden Grove Conservation Area.
10. Service Centres
We object to the proposed Service Centre on Shepherd Street as it will bring heavy, loud vehicles onto a residential street. As it will be positioned on the narrowest part of this street, it will also create a dangerous traffic hazard.
A more appropriate location for the Service Centre would be near the intersection of Shepherd and Cleveland Streets. This would mean the heavy service vehicles could enter and exit from the main arterial road of Cleveland Street and would therefore be kept off residential streets.
Conclusion
Residents of Darlington have not been given nearly enough time to study and comprehend such a huge and complex document as the CIP. The University has also completely ignored the requirements of the Director General in regard to community consultation.
This Development Application should not be considered by Planning NSW at all. The University should be instructed to abide by the Director-General's Requirements and consult properly with the local community, taking into account any issues raised and showing the changes made to address each issue, before resubmitting a new State Significant Development Application to the Department.
We would be very disappointed if Planning NSW supports this University development application when it has contravened the Department's own requirements.
Let it not be forgotten, the University of Sydney's Darlington Campus sits in a residential precinct; residential Darlington does not sit in a University precinct.
Yours faithfully,
RAIDD (Residents Acting In Darlington's Defence).
Nikki Fiedler
Object
Nikki Fiedler
Object
Darlington
,
New South Wales
Message
Dear Mr. McManus,
Happy Friday. I hope that this finds you well. I
just wanted to write in concern to the SSD 13_6123 USYD Campus Improvement Program 2014-2020 for the Cameperdown-Darlington area. Please see my concerns
below and thank you for your time.
University of Sydney's Campus Improvement Program 2014-2020 State Significant Development (SSD 6123)
I am a resident of Darlington and I have been granted an extension until 31 March 2014 to make a submission in regard to the above State Significant Development (SSD) application.
I object to the above development application for
the following reasons -
1. No Community Consultation
I object to the University NOT consulting with the local community and failing to comply with the following Director General's requirement - "During the preparation of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), consultation must be
undertaken with community groups and affected landowners. In particular you must consult with: RAIDD - Residents Acting In Darlington's Defence."
2. Height, Scale and Location of Buildings
I object to the program increase in floor space by a massive 68% from 555,600m2 to 937,800m2 with building heights of up to 19 storeys.
The height and bulk of the proposed buildings are too great for the low-rise heritage conservation residential precinct in
which the University sits.
I object to the proposed 3-storey building in Shepherd Street and the "multidisciplinary building" opposite the Sports Centre, both of which will overlook residents homes in Shepherd Street, Calder Road, Lander Street, Boundary Street and Abercrombie Street.
The University should be required to create green buffer zones between its buildings and residential buildings.
3. Separate Development Applications
I object to all new buildings and any refurbishments of existing buildings within the Campus Improvement Program
(CIP) being approved under this one SSD.
Each new building or refurbishment of an existing building should be subject to individual development applications so
that the dimensions, scale and use of each building is specified and conditions are imposed upon approval.
All new buildings should be set back from the street and located well within the University boundaries.
4. Heritage
I object to the University's proposal to completely infill the backyards of every heritage listed terrace house (bar 3) from 86 - 130 Darlington Road with 3 storey extensions.
The National Trust has given these terraces an "A" rating - "highly intact". The University should not be allowed to degrade the heritage value of these terraces, which are very close to the Golden Grove Conservation Area.
5. Noise
I object to the potential increase in noise from plant equipment such as large 24/7 air conditioners and cooling towers on proposed University buildings close to residents' homes. The current construction is already very noisy for the residential apartment units being built near Codrington and Abercrombie street. Every morning from 6:30am and until late at night, we can hear the construction from over two streets away.
There is also a lot of construction on Abercrombie street already from the City of Sydney's development to enlarge footpaths and promote proposed greener areas.
The University should establish the cumulative noise impact of ALL of its existing buildings before permission is given for further developments to proceed. The University should demonstrate that the cumulative noise impact of all of its
buildings complies with environmental legislation before permission for further developments is given.
Substantial green buffer zones should be created between new university buildings and residents to help reduce the impact of noise. We need more trees in general and planning for additional vegetation and new tree growth should be allotted.
6. Infrastructure
I object to increasing the student population from 49,500 to 60,000 by 2020 because the local infrastructure cannot even cope with the existing number of people coming into the area as it is.
I struggle to walk safely to work every morning because the sidewalks on Abercrombie street are completely flooded by
university students making their way to campus.
My partner queues in massive lines that come up the stairs to the ticket area for trains at Redfern station.
The plan should be withdrawn until local infrastructure, including footpaths and access to Redfern Station, are improved to cope with the increased population. At present, it is already beyond crowded and overrun. There is not enough transportation and footpaths to deal with current student traffic. It is unpleasant for residents and unsafe for
commuters including automobile drivers when pedestrian traffic flows onto the streets.
7. Vegetation
I object to the destruction of the Darlington Eucalypt Grove in
Shepherd Street and replacing it with a 3-storey building overlooking residents' houses. We need to plant more
trees instead of cutting them down. Our environment is already at max capacity with human population and impact.
This is one of the only remaining open spaces on the edge of the Darlington campus and should be retained to provide a green buffer zone between the University and the adjoining residential area. In general, the destruction of trees has a negative impact on neighbourhoods both aesthetically and
environmentally.
The University's Ecological Assessment recommends: "Avoid removal of mature trees and protection of trees in proximity to building/refurbishment sites."
8. Traffic and Parking
I object to the introduction of large car parks on the Darlington campus. With the projected huge increase in
the University population coming to the Darlington campus to use these car parks will come the associated problem of traffic congestion on residential streets. The University has not addressed this problem at all. The university needs better public transportation access for students.
University staff and students unable or unwilling to use these car parks will end up competing for parking on residential streets in Darlington. It will mean that residents' parking is severely reduced and will also compound the
traffic congestion in the area. Residential parking is already scarce in the small area.
I object to the University removing the ability of students and staff to drive through the campus. University traffic should be arriving at and departing from the campus via the main arterial roads such as City Road and Parramatta Road not via the residential streets of Darlington.
The University should be required to encourage short term parking on the larger Camperdown campus not on the Darlington campus. On the Camperdown campus, there is much more space for growth and development.
Currently, University staff and students are taking up much of the parking on residential streets. Residents, and especially elderly residents, should be able to park within reasonable walking distance from their homes.
I object to Butlin Avenue becoming a shared zone between traffic and pedestrians. It is one of the main roads in and out of Darlington for vehicles. As a shared zone it would create an unsafe environment for pedestrians and drivers alike.
9. Service Centres
I object to the proposed Service Centre on Shepherd Street as it will bring heavy, loud vehicles onto a residential street. As it will be positioned on the narrowest part of this street, it will also create a dangerous traffic hazard.
A more appropriate location for the Service Centre would be
near the intersection of Shepherd and Cleveland Streets. This would mean the heavy service vehicles could enter and exit from the main arterial road of Cleveland Street and would therefore be kept off residential streets.
I object to many aspects of this SSD application. As a resident of Darlington, I have not been given nearly enough
time to study and comprehend such a huge and complex document as the CIP.
The University should consult properly with the community specifically in regard to the CIP, as they were required to do by the Director General. I look forward to proper consultation with the University prior to this application being approved. During this consultation process residents' views should be listened to and addressed appropriately by the University.
This development program will have a major effect on myself, my family, my neighbours and the entire Darlington community, as well as having effects on the Inner West as a whole. It is not something that I, as a resident of Darlington, take lightly. Please consider this.
Thank you for your time and help,
Nikki
Fiedler
Happy Friday. I hope that this finds you well. I
just wanted to write in concern to the SSD 13_6123 USYD Campus Improvement Program 2014-2020 for the Cameperdown-Darlington area. Please see my concerns
below and thank you for your time.
University of Sydney's Campus Improvement Program 2014-2020 State Significant Development (SSD 6123)
I am a resident of Darlington and I have been granted an extension until 31 March 2014 to make a submission in regard to the above State Significant Development (SSD) application.
I object to the above development application for
the following reasons -
1. No Community Consultation
I object to the University NOT consulting with the local community and failing to comply with the following Director General's requirement - "During the preparation of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), consultation must be
undertaken with community groups and affected landowners. In particular you must consult with: RAIDD - Residents Acting In Darlington's Defence."
2. Height, Scale and Location of Buildings
I object to the program increase in floor space by a massive 68% from 555,600m2 to 937,800m2 with building heights of up to 19 storeys.
The height and bulk of the proposed buildings are too great for the low-rise heritage conservation residential precinct in
which the University sits.
I object to the proposed 3-storey building in Shepherd Street and the "multidisciplinary building" opposite the Sports Centre, both of which will overlook residents homes in Shepherd Street, Calder Road, Lander Street, Boundary Street and Abercrombie Street.
The University should be required to create green buffer zones between its buildings and residential buildings.
3. Separate Development Applications
I object to all new buildings and any refurbishments of existing buildings within the Campus Improvement Program
(CIP) being approved under this one SSD.
Each new building or refurbishment of an existing building should be subject to individual development applications so
that the dimensions, scale and use of each building is specified and conditions are imposed upon approval.
All new buildings should be set back from the street and located well within the University boundaries.
4. Heritage
I object to the University's proposal to completely infill the backyards of every heritage listed terrace house (bar 3) from 86 - 130 Darlington Road with 3 storey extensions.
The National Trust has given these terraces an "A" rating - "highly intact". The University should not be allowed to degrade the heritage value of these terraces, which are very close to the Golden Grove Conservation Area.
5. Noise
I object to the potential increase in noise from plant equipment such as large 24/7 air conditioners and cooling towers on proposed University buildings close to residents' homes. The current construction is already very noisy for the residential apartment units being built near Codrington and Abercrombie street. Every morning from 6:30am and until late at night, we can hear the construction from over two streets away.
There is also a lot of construction on Abercrombie street already from the City of Sydney's development to enlarge footpaths and promote proposed greener areas.
The University should establish the cumulative noise impact of ALL of its existing buildings before permission is given for further developments to proceed. The University should demonstrate that the cumulative noise impact of all of its
buildings complies with environmental legislation before permission for further developments is given.
Substantial green buffer zones should be created between new university buildings and residents to help reduce the impact of noise. We need more trees in general and planning for additional vegetation and new tree growth should be allotted.
6. Infrastructure
I object to increasing the student population from 49,500 to 60,000 by 2020 because the local infrastructure cannot even cope with the existing number of people coming into the area as it is.
I struggle to walk safely to work every morning because the sidewalks on Abercrombie street are completely flooded by
university students making their way to campus.
My partner queues in massive lines that come up the stairs to the ticket area for trains at Redfern station.
The plan should be withdrawn until local infrastructure, including footpaths and access to Redfern Station, are improved to cope with the increased population. At present, it is already beyond crowded and overrun. There is not enough transportation and footpaths to deal with current student traffic. It is unpleasant for residents and unsafe for
commuters including automobile drivers when pedestrian traffic flows onto the streets.
7. Vegetation
I object to the destruction of the Darlington Eucalypt Grove in
Shepherd Street and replacing it with a 3-storey building overlooking residents' houses. We need to plant more
trees instead of cutting them down. Our environment is already at max capacity with human population and impact.
This is one of the only remaining open spaces on the edge of the Darlington campus and should be retained to provide a green buffer zone between the University and the adjoining residential area. In general, the destruction of trees has a negative impact on neighbourhoods both aesthetically and
environmentally.
The University's Ecological Assessment recommends: "Avoid removal of mature trees and protection of trees in proximity to building/refurbishment sites."
8. Traffic and Parking
I object to the introduction of large car parks on the Darlington campus. With the projected huge increase in
the University population coming to the Darlington campus to use these car parks will come the associated problem of traffic congestion on residential streets. The University has not addressed this problem at all. The university needs better public transportation access for students.
University staff and students unable or unwilling to use these car parks will end up competing for parking on residential streets in Darlington. It will mean that residents' parking is severely reduced and will also compound the
traffic congestion in the area. Residential parking is already scarce in the small area.
I object to the University removing the ability of students and staff to drive through the campus. University traffic should be arriving at and departing from the campus via the main arterial roads such as City Road and Parramatta Road not via the residential streets of Darlington.
The University should be required to encourage short term parking on the larger Camperdown campus not on the Darlington campus. On the Camperdown campus, there is much more space for growth and development.
Currently, University staff and students are taking up much of the parking on residential streets. Residents, and especially elderly residents, should be able to park within reasonable walking distance from their homes.
I object to Butlin Avenue becoming a shared zone between traffic and pedestrians. It is one of the main roads in and out of Darlington for vehicles. As a shared zone it would create an unsafe environment for pedestrians and drivers alike.
9. Service Centres
I object to the proposed Service Centre on Shepherd Street as it will bring heavy, loud vehicles onto a residential street. As it will be positioned on the narrowest part of this street, it will also create a dangerous traffic hazard.
A more appropriate location for the Service Centre would be
near the intersection of Shepherd and Cleveland Streets. This would mean the heavy service vehicles could enter and exit from the main arterial road of Cleveland Street and would therefore be kept off residential streets.
I object to many aspects of this SSD application. As a resident of Darlington, I have not been given nearly enough
time to study and comprehend such a huge and complex document as the CIP.
The University should consult properly with the community specifically in regard to the CIP, as they were required to do by the Director General. I look forward to proper consultation with the University prior to this application being approved. During this consultation process residents' views should be listened to and addressed appropriately by the University.
This development program will have a major effect on myself, my family, my neighbours and the entire Darlington community, as well as having effects on the Inner West as a whole. It is not something that I, as a resident of Darlington, take lightly. Please consider this.
Thank you for your time and help,
Nikki
Fiedler
Maurice Thibaux
Object
Maurice Thibaux
Object
Darlington
,
New South Wales
Message
Dear Mr McManus,
Re: University of Sydney's Campus Improvement Program (SSD 6123)
Submission by way of objection to the above project:
I am a resident of Darlington affected by the above expansion project of Sydney University. I am concerned that this massive overdevelopment, euphemistically referred to as a "Campus Improvement Project", will all but destroy our community already suffering from the enormous 8 story Business School development right in front of our 19 century terraces.
I am against the removal of more trees, loss of vegetation and reduction in open space in our suburb to cram 10 to 15 story building side by side, right on the border with residential street, in front of 2 story terraces. This will deface our suburb and ruin the streetscape for residents.
The other major concern I have is that no infrastructure is planned to divert traffic away from the residents, keeping in mind that we are squeezed between this unexpected additional development and the Eveleigh Development that has no direct access to main roads. Abercrombie St and Wilson St are now already congested by through traffic and patrons looking for (non existent) parking and this makes life impossible in our streets. This development cannot take place until the State puts in a traffic control plan for the area.
On this subject, please note for reference that I am also against the closure of Butlin St/Codrington St, which has traffic lights and right hand turn at City Rd and is a vital link to Eveleigh Development and Carriageworks, which generate a lot of traffic already. Traffic to these new developments should not have skirt around the massive campus to travel the whole length of Darlington, past the primary school and annoying residents. In fact, given that Darlington St is only used for University parking, it should be reopened from Newtown end to prevent this traffic circling around past the school, which is absurd. This access also helps reduce the number of cars turning right into Butlin Ave from Newtown. It is a win-win solution.
Apart from these concerns, this project is too immense to be able to analyse every single problem that may be raised and each building proposal should be made one at a time. I agree that there is scope for replacing some old structures and that regrouping some departments would make better use of the space, but not to increase capacity by over 50% to 60,000 students. We have already lost 300 homes, a park and over 100 trees on the Business School Project. If buildings of the size and height proposed are to be built there must be a proportional amount of space around them and a green buffer zones with residential streets.
These are but some of the problems I foresee but I also subscribe to the objections discussed with the Darlington Residents Group RAIDD below, therefore:
I object to the proposed development for the following reasons :
1. No Community Consultation
I object to the University NOT consulting with the local community and failing to comply with the following Director General's requirement - "During the preparation of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), consultation must be undertaken with community groups and affected landowners. In particular you must consult with: RAIDD - Residents Acting In Darlington's Defence."
2. Height, Scale and Location of Buildings
I object to this massive building program which would increase floor space by a massive 68% from 555,600m2 to 937,800m2 with building heights of up to 19 storeys.
The height and bulk of the proposed buildings are too great for the low rise heritage conservation residential precinct in which the University sits.
I object to the proposed 3 storey building in Shepherd Street and the "multidisciplinary building" opposite the Sports Centre both of which will overlook residents homes in Shepherd Street, Calder Road, Lander Street, Boundary Street and Abercrombie Street.
The University should be required to create green buffer zones between its buildings and residential buildings.
3. Separate Development Applications
I object to all new buildings and any refurbishments of existing buildings within the Campus Improvement Program (CIP) being approved under this one SSD.
Each new building or refurbishment of an existing building should be subject to individual development applications so that the dimensions, scale and use of each building is specified and conditions are imposed upon approval.
All new buildings should be set back from the street and located well within the University boundaries.
4. Heritage
I object to the University's proposal to completely infill the backyards of every heritage listed terrace house (bar 3) from 86 - 130 Darlington Road with 3 storey extensions.
The National Trust has given these terraces an "A" rating - "highly intact". The University should not be allowed to degrade the heritage value of these terraces which are very close to the Golden Grove Conservation Area.
5. Noise
I object to the potential increase in noise from plant equipment such as large 24/7 air conditioners and cooling towers on proposed University buildings close to residents' homes.
The University should establish the cumulative noise impact of ALL of its existing buildings before permission is given for further developments to proceed. The University should demonstrate that the cumulative noise impact of all of its buildings complies with environmental legislation before permission for further developments is given.
Substantial green buffer zones should be created between new university buildings and residents to help reduce the impact of noise.
6. Infrastructure
I object to increasing the student population from 49,500 to 60,000 by 2020 because the local infrastructure cannot even cope with the existing number of people coming into the area as it is. The plan should be withdrawn until local infrastructure, including footpaths and access to Redfern Station, are improved to cope with the increased population.
7. Vegetation
I object to the destruction of the Darlington Eucalypt Grove in Shepherd Street and replacing it with a 3 storey building overlooking residents' houses. This is one of the only remaining open spaces on the edge of the Darlington campus and should be retained to provide a green buffer zone between the University and the adjoining residential area.
The University's Ecological Assessment recommends: "Avoid removal of mature trees and protection of trees in proximity to building/refurbishment sites."
8. Traffic and Parking
I object to the introduction of large car parks on the Darlington campus. With the projected huge increase in the University population coming to the Darlington campus to use these car parks will come the associated problem of traffic congestion on residential streets. The University has not addressed this problem at all.
University staff and students unable or unwilling to use these car parks will end up competing for parking on residential streets in Darlington. It will mean that residents' parking is severely reduced and will also compound the traffic congestion in the area.
I object to the University removing the ability of students and staff to drive through the campus. University traffic should be arriving at and departing from the campus via the main arterial roads such as City Road and Parramatta Road not via the residential streets of Darlington.
The University should be required to encourage short term parking on the larger Camperdown campus not on the Darlington campus.
Currently, University staff and students are taking up much of the parking on residential streets. Residents, and especially elderly residents, should be able to park within reasonable walking distance from their homes.
I object to Butlin Avenue becoming a shared zone between traffic and pedestrians. It is one of the main roads in and out of Darlington for vehicles. As a shared zone it would create an unsafe environment for pedestrians and drivers alike.
9. Service Centres
I object to the proposed Service Centre on Shepherd Street as it will bring heavy, loud vehicles onto a residential street. As it will be positioned on the narrowest part of this street, it will also create a dangerous traffic hazard.
A more appropriate location for the Service Centre would be near the intersection of Shepherd and Cleveland Streets. This would mean the heavy service vehicles could enter and exit from the main arterial road of Cleveland Street and would therefore be kept off residential streets.
I object to many aspects of this SSD application.
As a resident of Darlington I have not been given nearly enough time to study and comprehend such a huge and complex document as the CIP.
The University should consult properly with the community specifically in regard to the CIP as they were required to do by the Director General. I look forward to proper consultation with the University prior to this application being approved. During this consultation process residents' views should be listened to and acted on appropriately by the University.
This huge and massive development program will have a major effect on myself, my family and the Darlington community. It is not something which I as a resident of Darlington take lightly.
Yours faithfully,
Maurice Thibaux
Re: University of Sydney's Campus Improvement Program (SSD 6123)
Submission by way of objection to the above project:
I am a resident of Darlington affected by the above expansion project of Sydney University. I am concerned that this massive overdevelopment, euphemistically referred to as a "Campus Improvement Project", will all but destroy our community already suffering from the enormous 8 story Business School development right in front of our 19 century terraces.
I am against the removal of more trees, loss of vegetation and reduction in open space in our suburb to cram 10 to 15 story building side by side, right on the border with residential street, in front of 2 story terraces. This will deface our suburb and ruin the streetscape for residents.
The other major concern I have is that no infrastructure is planned to divert traffic away from the residents, keeping in mind that we are squeezed between this unexpected additional development and the Eveleigh Development that has no direct access to main roads. Abercrombie St and Wilson St are now already congested by through traffic and patrons looking for (non existent) parking and this makes life impossible in our streets. This development cannot take place until the State puts in a traffic control plan for the area.
On this subject, please note for reference that I am also against the closure of Butlin St/Codrington St, which has traffic lights and right hand turn at City Rd and is a vital link to Eveleigh Development and Carriageworks, which generate a lot of traffic already. Traffic to these new developments should not have skirt around the massive campus to travel the whole length of Darlington, past the primary school and annoying residents. In fact, given that Darlington St is only used for University parking, it should be reopened from Newtown end to prevent this traffic circling around past the school, which is absurd. This access also helps reduce the number of cars turning right into Butlin Ave from Newtown. It is a win-win solution.
Apart from these concerns, this project is too immense to be able to analyse every single problem that may be raised and each building proposal should be made one at a time. I agree that there is scope for replacing some old structures and that regrouping some departments would make better use of the space, but not to increase capacity by over 50% to 60,000 students. We have already lost 300 homes, a park and over 100 trees on the Business School Project. If buildings of the size and height proposed are to be built there must be a proportional amount of space around them and a green buffer zones with residential streets.
These are but some of the problems I foresee but I also subscribe to the objections discussed with the Darlington Residents Group RAIDD below, therefore:
I object to the proposed development for the following reasons :
1. No Community Consultation
I object to the University NOT consulting with the local community and failing to comply with the following Director General's requirement - "During the preparation of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), consultation must be undertaken with community groups and affected landowners. In particular you must consult with: RAIDD - Residents Acting In Darlington's Defence."
2. Height, Scale and Location of Buildings
I object to this massive building program which would increase floor space by a massive 68% from 555,600m2 to 937,800m2 with building heights of up to 19 storeys.
The height and bulk of the proposed buildings are too great for the low rise heritage conservation residential precinct in which the University sits.
I object to the proposed 3 storey building in Shepherd Street and the "multidisciplinary building" opposite the Sports Centre both of which will overlook residents homes in Shepherd Street, Calder Road, Lander Street, Boundary Street and Abercrombie Street.
The University should be required to create green buffer zones between its buildings and residential buildings.
3. Separate Development Applications
I object to all new buildings and any refurbishments of existing buildings within the Campus Improvement Program (CIP) being approved under this one SSD.
Each new building or refurbishment of an existing building should be subject to individual development applications so that the dimensions, scale and use of each building is specified and conditions are imposed upon approval.
All new buildings should be set back from the street and located well within the University boundaries.
4. Heritage
I object to the University's proposal to completely infill the backyards of every heritage listed terrace house (bar 3) from 86 - 130 Darlington Road with 3 storey extensions.
The National Trust has given these terraces an "A" rating - "highly intact". The University should not be allowed to degrade the heritage value of these terraces which are very close to the Golden Grove Conservation Area.
5. Noise
I object to the potential increase in noise from plant equipment such as large 24/7 air conditioners and cooling towers on proposed University buildings close to residents' homes.
The University should establish the cumulative noise impact of ALL of its existing buildings before permission is given for further developments to proceed. The University should demonstrate that the cumulative noise impact of all of its buildings complies with environmental legislation before permission for further developments is given.
Substantial green buffer zones should be created between new university buildings and residents to help reduce the impact of noise.
6. Infrastructure
I object to increasing the student population from 49,500 to 60,000 by 2020 because the local infrastructure cannot even cope with the existing number of people coming into the area as it is. The plan should be withdrawn until local infrastructure, including footpaths and access to Redfern Station, are improved to cope with the increased population.
7. Vegetation
I object to the destruction of the Darlington Eucalypt Grove in Shepherd Street and replacing it with a 3 storey building overlooking residents' houses. This is one of the only remaining open spaces on the edge of the Darlington campus and should be retained to provide a green buffer zone between the University and the adjoining residential area.
The University's Ecological Assessment recommends: "Avoid removal of mature trees and protection of trees in proximity to building/refurbishment sites."
8. Traffic and Parking
I object to the introduction of large car parks on the Darlington campus. With the projected huge increase in the University population coming to the Darlington campus to use these car parks will come the associated problem of traffic congestion on residential streets. The University has not addressed this problem at all.
University staff and students unable or unwilling to use these car parks will end up competing for parking on residential streets in Darlington. It will mean that residents' parking is severely reduced and will also compound the traffic congestion in the area.
I object to the University removing the ability of students and staff to drive through the campus. University traffic should be arriving at and departing from the campus via the main arterial roads such as City Road and Parramatta Road not via the residential streets of Darlington.
The University should be required to encourage short term parking on the larger Camperdown campus not on the Darlington campus.
Currently, University staff and students are taking up much of the parking on residential streets. Residents, and especially elderly residents, should be able to park within reasonable walking distance from their homes.
I object to Butlin Avenue becoming a shared zone between traffic and pedestrians. It is one of the main roads in and out of Darlington for vehicles. As a shared zone it would create an unsafe environment for pedestrians and drivers alike.
9. Service Centres
I object to the proposed Service Centre on Shepherd Street as it will bring heavy, loud vehicles onto a residential street. As it will be positioned on the narrowest part of this street, it will also create a dangerous traffic hazard.
A more appropriate location for the Service Centre would be near the intersection of Shepherd and Cleveland Streets. This would mean the heavy service vehicles could enter and exit from the main arterial road of Cleveland Street and would therefore be kept off residential streets.
I object to many aspects of this SSD application.
As a resident of Darlington I have not been given nearly enough time to study and comprehend such a huge and complex document as the CIP.
The University should consult properly with the community specifically in regard to the CIP as they were required to do by the Director General. I look forward to proper consultation with the University prior to this application being approved. During this consultation process residents' views should be listened to and acted on appropriately by the University.
This huge and massive development program will have a major effect on myself, my family and the Darlington community. It is not something which I as a resident of Darlington take lightly.
Yours faithfully,
Maurice Thibaux
Maya Saric
Object
Maya Saric
Object
Newtown
,
New South Wales
Message
I would like to formally object to several issues within the Sydney Universities Campus improvement program, listed below. I am appalled and saddened by the total disregard the University has shown to the local community, Australia's urban development including and its own historical position as Australia's oldest University . It is this historical position that puts it into heart of low rise heritage conservation residential precinct that they are blatantly seeking to destroy.
Further the University continues to show a total disregard for its impact in the greater Sydney landscape with some aspects of this development in immediate contravention to rulings by the Australian National Trust and the Director General.
I ask that the proposed development be rejected.
I object to:
1. University NOT consulting with the local community and failing to comply with the following Director General's requirement - "During the preparation of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), consultation must be undertaken with community groups and affected landowners.
2. The destruction of the Darlington Eucalypt Grove in Shepherd Street. The University's Ecological Assessment recommends: "Avoid removal of mature trees and protection of trees in proximity to building/refurbishment sites."
3. increases floor area from 555,600m2 to 937,800m2 with building heights of up to 19 storeys. The height and bulk of the proposed buildings are too great for the low rise heritage conservation residential precinct in which the University sits. I especially object to the proposed 3 storey building in Shepherd Street and the "multidisciplinary building" opposite the sports centre both of which will overlook residents homes in Shepherd Street, Calder Road, Lander Street, Boundary street and Abercrombie Street. The University should create green buffer zones between its buildings and residential buildings.
4. increase in noise from
a. plant equipment such as large 24/7 air conditioners and cooling towers
b. an increase in University car traffic.
c. The University must measure the cumulative impact of all the noise it generates to ensure that it always complies with environmental legislation.
5. proposal to completely infill the backyards of every heritage listed terrace house from 86 - 130 Darlington Road with 3 storey extensions. The National trust has given these terraces an "A" rating - "highly intact". The University should not be allowed to degrade the heritage value of these terraces which are very close to the Golden Grove Conservation Area.
6. 68% increases in floor space and increasing the student population from 49,500 to 60,000 by 2020 because the local infrastructure cannot cope with the existing number of people. The plan should be withdrawn until local infrastructure, including footpaths and access to Redfern Station, are improved to cope with the increased population. The University's plan would put further stress on off street parking in residential streets as there would be an increase in the number of students and University staff parking their cars in local streets.
Yours sincerely
Maya Saric
Further the University continues to show a total disregard for its impact in the greater Sydney landscape with some aspects of this development in immediate contravention to rulings by the Australian National Trust and the Director General.
I ask that the proposed development be rejected.
I object to:
1. University NOT consulting with the local community and failing to comply with the following Director General's requirement - "During the preparation of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), consultation must be undertaken with community groups and affected landowners.
2. The destruction of the Darlington Eucalypt Grove in Shepherd Street. The University's Ecological Assessment recommends: "Avoid removal of mature trees and protection of trees in proximity to building/refurbishment sites."
3. increases floor area from 555,600m2 to 937,800m2 with building heights of up to 19 storeys. The height and bulk of the proposed buildings are too great for the low rise heritage conservation residential precinct in which the University sits. I especially object to the proposed 3 storey building in Shepherd Street and the "multidisciplinary building" opposite the sports centre both of which will overlook residents homes in Shepherd Street, Calder Road, Lander Street, Boundary street and Abercrombie Street. The University should create green buffer zones between its buildings and residential buildings.
4. increase in noise from
a. plant equipment such as large 24/7 air conditioners and cooling towers
b. an increase in University car traffic.
c. The University must measure the cumulative impact of all the noise it generates to ensure that it always complies with environmental legislation.
5. proposal to completely infill the backyards of every heritage listed terrace house from 86 - 130 Darlington Road with 3 storey extensions. The National trust has given these terraces an "A" rating - "highly intact". The University should not be allowed to degrade the heritage value of these terraces which are very close to the Golden Grove Conservation Area.
6. 68% increases in floor space and increasing the student population from 49,500 to 60,000 by 2020 because the local infrastructure cannot cope with the existing number of people. The plan should be withdrawn until local infrastructure, including footpaths and access to Redfern Station, are improved to cope with the increased population. The University's plan would put further stress on off street parking in residential streets as there would be an increase in the number of students and University staff parking their cars in local streets.
Yours sincerely
Maya Saric
Mary Ellen McCue
Object
Mary Ellen McCue
Object
Darlington
,
New South Wales
Message
Dear Mr McManus,
I am a resident of Darlington and I have been granted an extension until 31 March 2014 to make a submission in regard to the above State Significant Development (SSD) application.
I object to the above development application for the following reasons -
1. No Community Consultation
I object to the University NOT consulting with the local community and failing to comply with the following Director General's requirements (SSD 13_6123 DGRs.pdf and Modified SSD 13_6123 DGRs Reissued 23.10.2013.pdf) which says "During the preparation of the EIS, consultation must be undertaken with the relevant Commonwealth Government, State or local authorities, service providers, community groups and affected landowners. In particular you must consult with:..RAIDD - Residents Acting In Darlington's Defence."
Furthermore, in Appendix N - Consultation Outcomes, in the document Appendix N_Consultation.pdf, I am listed as a Member of RAIDD, a Community Stakeholder, even though I have never been consulted by the University of Sydney in regard to the Environmental Impact Statement of the Campus Improvement Program as directed by the Director-General. In fact, I have not been consulted by the University of Sydney about anything to do with this Program.
This seems to be a deliberate attempt by the University to mislead the Department of Planning.
As the main RAIDD contact, I have never received a request by the University to organise RAIDD representatives to meet with them in regard to the SSD application for its Campus Improvement Program 2014-2020.
I am outraged to see my name and others from the community listed in Appendix N Consultation Outcomes.
During meetings in regard to the Abercrombie Precinct Development and the Pedestrian and Bicycle Strategy I was not informed by any of the University representatives that any comments I made were to be used in regard to the CIP. I was completely unaware of the CIP at the time.
I therefore demand that this document, as it is not true, is recalled as I have not been consulted in any way about the CIP.
2. Insufficient Response Time
I note that the University lodged 146 documents in support of its State Significant Development (SSD) application for its Campus Improvement Program 2014-2020 and that I initially had until 28 February 2014 to submit a response to the Department of Planning.
I object to the lack of time which residents have been given to respond to the CIP after having had no consultation during its development. I and many of the residents have full-time jobs, have families and therefore have very little time left in our busy schedules in which to understand something of this magnitude.
Giving residents less than 4 weeks to absorb a wealth of information, understand the implications it may have on the surrounding community, and formulate a meaningful response is simply not manageable. We do not feel that we were given nearly enough time in which to do this. This is unfair and unacceptable.
Clearly, the University has been preparing all these documents over many months and even years. In all that time the University has not consulted with local residents, the people who will be directly affected by what they are proposing in this SSD application, in any way whatsoever.
3. Height, Scale and Location of Buildings
I object to this massive building program which would increase floor space by a massive 68% from 555,600m2 to 937,800m2 with building heights of up to 19 storeys.
Overall, the height and bulk of the proposed buildings are too great for the low rise heritage conservation residential precinct in which the University sits.
I object to the proposed 3 storey building in Shepherd Street and the "multidisciplinary building" opposite the Sports Centre both of which will overlook residents homes in Shepherd Street, Calder Road, Lander Street, Boundary Street and Abercrombie Street.
I object to the proposed development of the Regiment Building which will be up to 9 storeys in height. It will result in significant overshadowing of the public housing in Golden Grove Street and also of the Darlington Public School playground.
The University should be required to create green buffer zones between its buildings and residential buildings. All new buildings should be set back from the street and located well within the University boundaries.
4. Separate Development Applications
I object to all new buildings and any refurbishments of existing buildings within the Campus Improvement Program (CIP) being approved under this one SSD.
Each new building or refurbishment of an existing building should be subject to individual development applications so that the dimensions, scale and use of each building is specified and conditions are imposed upon approval.
5. Heritage
I object to the University's proposal to completely infill the backyards of every heritage listed terrace house (bar 3) from 86 - 130 Darlington Road with 3 storey extensions.
The National Trust has given these terraces an "A" rating - "highly intact". The University should not be allowed to degrade the heritage value of these terraces which are very close to the Golden Grove Conservation Area.
If the University is allowed to build 3 storey extensions in the rear of heritage listed terraces then the precedent is set for residents throughout Sydney to do the same. This should not be allowed to happen.
6. Noise
I object to the potential increase in noise from plant equipment such as large 24/7 air conditioners and cooling towers on proposed University buildings close to residents' homes.
The University should establish the cumulative noise impact of ALL of its existing buildings before permission is given for further developments to proceed. The University should demonstrate that the cumulative noise impact of all of its buildings complies with environmental legislation before permission for further developments is given.
Substantial green buffer zones should be created between new university buildings and residents to help reduce the impact of noise.
7. Population Increase and Infrastructure
I object to increasing the student population from 49,500 to 60,000 by 2020 because the local infrastructure cannot even cope with the existing number of people coming into the area as it is.
The plan should be withdrawn until local infrastructure, including footpaths and access to Redfern Station, are improved to cope with the increased population.
8. Vegetation
I object to the destruction of the Darlington Eucalypt Grove in Shepherd Street and replacing it with a 3 storey building overlooking residents' houses. This is one of the only remaining open spaces on the edge of the Darlington campus and should be retained to provide a green buffer zone between the University and the adjoining residential area.
The University's Ecological Assessment recommends: "Avoid removal of mature trees and protection of trees in proximity to building/refurbishment sites."
9. Traffic and Parking
I object to the introduction of large car parks on the Darlington campus. With the projected huge increase in the University population coming to the Darlington campus to use these car parks will come the associated problem of traffic congestion on residential streets. The University has not addressed this problem at all.
University staff and students unable or unwilling to use these car parks will end up competing for parking on residential streets in Darlington. It will mean that residents' parking is severely reduced and will also compound the traffic congestion in the area.
I object to the University removing the ability of students and staff to drive through the campus. University traffic should be arriving at and departing from the campus via the main arterial roads such as City Road and Parramatta Road not via the residential streets of Darlington.
The University should be required to encourage short term parking on the larger Camperdown campus not on the Darlington campus.
Currently, University staff and students are taking up much of the parking on residential streets throughout Darlington. Residents, and especially elderly residents, should be able to park within reasonable walking distance from their homes.
I object to Butlin Avenue becoming a shared zone between traffic and pedestrians. It is one of the main roads in and out of Darlington for vehicles. As a shared zone it would create an unsafe environment for pedestrians and drivers alike.
10. Service Centres
I object to the proposed Service Centre on Shepherd Street as it will bring heavy, loud vehicles onto a residential street. As it will be positioned on the narrowest part of this street, it will also create a dangerous traffic hazard.
A more appropriate location for the Service Centre would be near the intersection of Shepherd and Cleveland Streets. This would mean the heavy service vehicles could enter and exit from the main arterial road of Cleveland Street and would therefore be kept off residential streets.
I object to many aspects of this SSD application and believe that it should be withdrawn.
As a resident of Darlington I have not been given nearly enough time to study and comprehend such a huge and complex document as the CIP.
The University should consult properly with the community specifically in regard to the CIP as they were required to do by the Director General. I look forward to proper consultation with the University prior to this application being approved. During this consultation process residents' views should be listened to and acted on appropriately by the University.
This huge and massive development program will have a major effect on myself, my family and the Darlington community. It is not something which I as a resident of Darlington take lightly.
Yours faithfully,
Mary Ellen McCue
I am a resident of Darlington and I have been granted an extension until 31 March 2014 to make a submission in regard to the above State Significant Development (SSD) application.
I object to the above development application for the following reasons -
1. No Community Consultation
I object to the University NOT consulting with the local community and failing to comply with the following Director General's requirements (SSD 13_6123 DGRs.pdf and Modified SSD 13_6123 DGRs Reissued 23.10.2013.pdf) which says "During the preparation of the EIS, consultation must be undertaken with the relevant Commonwealth Government, State or local authorities, service providers, community groups and affected landowners. In particular you must consult with:..RAIDD - Residents Acting In Darlington's Defence."
Furthermore, in Appendix N - Consultation Outcomes, in the document Appendix N_Consultation.pdf, I am listed as a Member of RAIDD, a Community Stakeholder, even though I have never been consulted by the University of Sydney in regard to the Environmental Impact Statement of the Campus Improvement Program as directed by the Director-General. In fact, I have not been consulted by the University of Sydney about anything to do with this Program.
This seems to be a deliberate attempt by the University to mislead the Department of Planning.
As the main RAIDD contact, I have never received a request by the University to organise RAIDD representatives to meet with them in regard to the SSD application for its Campus Improvement Program 2014-2020.
I am outraged to see my name and others from the community listed in Appendix N Consultation Outcomes.
During meetings in regard to the Abercrombie Precinct Development and the Pedestrian and Bicycle Strategy I was not informed by any of the University representatives that any comments I made were to be used in regard to the CIP. I was completely unaware of the CIP at the time.
I therefore demand that this document, as it is not true, is recalled as I have not been consulted in any way about the CIP.
2. Insufficient Response Time
I note that the University lodged 146 documents in support of its State Significant Development (SSD) application for its Campus Improvement Program 2014-2020 and that I initially had until 28 February 2014 to submit a response to the Department of Planning.
I object to the lack of time which residents have been given to respond to the CIP after having had no consultation during its development. I and many of the residents have full-time jobs, have families and therefore have very little time left in our busy schedules in which to understand something of this magnitude.
Giving residents less than 4 weeks to absorb a wealth of information, understand the implications it may have on the surrounding community, and formulate a meaningful response is simply not manageable. We do not feel that we were given nearly enough time in which to do this. This is unfair and unacceptable.
Clearly, the University has been preparing all these documents over many months and even years. In all that time the University has not consulted with local residents, the people who will be directly affected by what they are proposing in this SSD application, in any way whatsoever.
3. Height, Scale and Location of Buildings
I object to this massive building program which would increase floor space by a massive 68% from 555,600m2 to 937,800m2 with building heights of up to 19 storeys.
Overall, the height and bulk of the proposed buildings are too great for the low rise heritage conservation residential precinct in which the University sits.
I object to the proposed 3 storey building in Shepherd Street and the "multidisciplinary building" opposite the Sports Centre both of which will overlook residents homes in Shepherd Street, Calder Road, Lander Street, Boundary Street and Abercrombie Street.
I object to the proposed development of the Regiment Building which will be up to 9 storeys in height. It will result in significant overshadowing of the public housing in Golden Grove Street and also of the Darlington Public School playground.
The University should be required to create green buffer zones between its buildings and residential buildings. All new buildings should be set back from the street and located well within the University boundaries.
4. Separate Development Applications
I object to all new buildings and any refurbishments of existing buildings within the Campus Improvement Program (CIP) being approved under this one SSD.
Each new building or refurbishment of an existing building should be subject to individual development applications so that the dimensions, scale and use of each building is specified and conditions are imposed upon approval.
5. Heritage
I object to the University's proposal to completely infill the backyards of every heritage listed terrace house (bar 3) from 86 - 130 Darlington Road with 3 storey extensions.
The National Trust has given these terraces an "A" rating - "highly intact". The University should not be allowed to degrade the heritage value of these terraces which are very close to the Golden Grove Conservation Area.
If the University is allowed to build 3 storey extensions in the rear of heritage listed terraces then the precedent is set for residents throughout Sydney to do the same. This should not be allowed to happen.
6. Noise
I object to the potential increase in noise from plant equipment such as large 24/7 air conditioners and cooling towers on proposed University buildings close to residents' homes.
The University should establish the cumulative noise impact of ALL of its existing buildings before permission is given for further developments to proceed. The University should demonstrate that the cumulative noise impact of all of its buildings complies with environmental legislation before permission for further developments is given.
Substantial green buffer zones should be created between new university buildings and residents to help reduce the impact of noise.
7. Population Increase and Infrastructure
I object to increasing the student population from 49,500 to 60,000 by 2020 because the local infrastructure cannot even cope with the existing number of people coming into the area as it is.
The plan should be withdrawn until local infrastructure, including footpaths and access to Redfern Station, are improved to cope with the increased population.
8. Vegetation
I object to the destruction of the Darlington Eucalypt Grove in Shepherd Street and replacing it with a 3 storey building overlooking residents' houses. This is one of the only remaining open spaces on the edge of the Darlington campus and should be retained to provide a green buffer zone between the University and the adjoining residential area.
The University's Ecological Assessment recommends: "Avoid removal of mature trees and protection of trees in proximity to building/refurbishment sites."
9. Traffic and Parking
I object to the introduction of large car parks on the Darlington campus. With the projected huge increase in the University population coming to the Darlington campus to use these car parks will come the associated problem of traffic congestion on residential streets. The University has not addressed this problem at all.
University staff and students unable or unwilling to use these car parks will end up competing for parking on residential streets in Darlington. It will mean that residents' parking is severely reduced and will also compound the traffic congestion in the area.
I object to the University removing the ability of students and staff to drive through the campus. University traffic should be arriving at and departing from the campus via the main arterial roads such as City Road and Parramatta Road not via the residential streets of Darlington.
The University should be required to encourage short term parking on the larger Camperdown campus not on the Darlington campus.
Currently, University staff and students are taking up much of the parking on residential streets throughout Darlington. Residents, and especially elderly residents, should be able to park within reasonable walking distance from their homes.
I object to Butlin Avenue becoming a shared zone between traffic and pedestrians. It is one of the main roads in and out of Darlington for vehicles. As a shared zone it would create an unsafe environment for pedestrians and drivers alike.
10. Service Centres
I object to the proposed Service Centre on Shepherd Street as it will bring heavy, loud vehicles onto a residential street. As it will be positioned on the narrowest part of this street, it will also create a dangerous traffic hazard.
A more appropriate location for the Service Centre would be near the intersection of Shepherd and Cleveland Streets. This would mean the heavy service vehicles could enter and exit from the main arterial road of Cleveland Street and would therefore be kept off residential streets.
I object to many aspects of this SSD application and believe that it should be withdrawn.
As a resident of Darlington I have not been given nearly enough time to study and comprehend such a huge and complex document as the CIP.
The University should consult properly with the community specifically in regard to the CIP as they were required to do by the Director General. I look forward to proper consultation with the University prior to this application being approved. During this consultation process residents' views should be listened to and acted on appropriately by the University.
This huge and massive development program will have a major effect on myself, my family and the Darlington community. It is not something which I as a resident of Darlington take lightly.
Yours faithfully,
Mary Ellen McCue
Mardi McConnochie
Object
Mardi McConnochie
Object
Darlington
,
New South Wales
Message
As a concerned local resident and the parent of a child attending Darlington Public School, I would like to formally object to several issues within the Sydney Universities Campus improvement program, listed below.
I am appalled and saddened by the total disregard the University has shown to the local community, Australia's urban development and its own historical position as Australia's oldest University . It is this historical position that puts it into heart of low rise heritage conservation residential precinct that they are blatantly seeking to destroy.
Further the University continues to show a total disregard for its impact in the greater Sydney landscape with some aspects of this development in immediate contravention to rulings by the Australian National Trust and the Director General.
I ask that the proposed development be rejected.
I object to:
1. University NOT consulting with the local community and failing to comply with the following Director General's requirement - "During the preparation of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), consultation must be undertaken with community groups and affected landowners.
2. The destruction of the Darlington Eucalypt Grove in Shepherd Street. The University's Ecological Assessment recommends: "Avoid removal of mature trees and protection of trees in proximity to building/refurbishment sites."
3. increases floor area from 555,600m2 to 937,800m2 with building heights of up to 19 storeys. The height and bulk of the proposed buildings are too great for the low rise heritage conservation residential precinct in which the University sits. I especially object to the proposed 3 storey building in Shepherd Street and the "multidisciplinary building" opposite the sports centre both of which will overlook residents homes in Shepherd Street, Calder Road, Lander Street, Boundary street and Abercrombie Street. The University should create green buffer zones between its buildings and residential buildings.
4. increase in noise from
a. plant equipment such as large 24/7 air conditioners and cooling towers
b. an increase in University car traffic.
c. The University must measure the cumulative impact of all the noise it generates to ensure that it always complies with environmental legislation.
5. proposal to completely infill the backyards of every heritage listed terrace house from 86 - 130 Darlington Road with 3 storey extensions. The National trust has given these terraces an "A" rating - "highly intact". The University should not be allowed to degrade the heritage value of these terraces which are very close to the Golden Grove Conservation Area.
6. 68% increases in floor space and increasing the student population from 49,500 to 60,000 by 2020 because the local infrastructure cannot cope with the existing number of people. The plan should be withdrawn until local infrastructure, including footpaths and access to Redfern Station, are improved to cope with the increased population. The University's plan would put further stress on off street parking in residential streets as there would be an increase in the number of students and University staff parking their cars in local streets. We are already seeing a marked increase in street traffic through narrow residential streets and serious issues with parking. A large increase in student numbers would make those problems much worse. No further development should be considered unless it is accompanied by the appropriate infrastructure development to manage the flow of people in and out of the area.
Yours sincerely
Mardi McConnochie
I am appalled and saddened by the total disregard the University has shown to the local community, Australia's urban development and its own historical position as Australia's oldest University . It is this historical position that puts it into heart of low rise heritage conservation residential precinct that they are blatantly seeking to destroy.
Further the University continues to show a total disregard for its impact in the greater Sydney landscape with some aspects of this development in immediate contravention to rulings by the Australian National Trust and the Director General.
I ask that the proposed development be rejected.
I object to:
1. University NOT consulting with the local community and failing to comply with the following Director General's requirement - "During the preparation of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), consultation must be undertaken with community groups and affected landowners.
2. The destruction of the Darlington Eucalypt Grove in Shepherd Street. The University's Ecological Assessment recommends: "Avoid removal of mature trees and protection of trees in proximity to building/refurbishment sites."
3. increases floor area from 555,600m2 to 937,800m2 with building heights of up to 19 storeys. The height and bulk of the proposed buildings are too great for the low rise heritage conservation residential precinct in which the University sits. I especially object to the proposed 3 storey building in Shepherd Street and the "multidisciplinary building" opposite the sports centre both of which will overlook residents homes in Shepherd Street, Calder Road, Lander Street, Boundary street and Abercrombie Street. The University should create green buffer zones between its buildings and residential buildings.
4. increase in noise from
a. plant equipment such as large 24/7 air conditioners and cooling towers
b. an increase in University car traffic.
c. The University must measure the cumulative impact of all the noise it generates to ensure that it always complies with environmental legislation.
5. proposal to completely infill the backyards of every heritage listed terrace house from 86 - 130 Darlington Road with 3 storey extensions. The National trust has given these terraces an "A" rating - "highly intact". The University should not be allowed to degrade the heritage value of these terraces which are very close to the Golden Grove Conservation Area.
6. 68% increases in floor space and increasing the student population from 49,500 to 60,000 by 2020 because the local infrastructure cannot cope with the existing number of people. The plan should be withdrawn until local infrastructure, including footpaths and access to Redfern Station, are improved to cope with the increased population. The University's plan would put further stress on off street parking in residential streets as there would be an increase in the number of students and University staff parking their cars in local streets. We are already seeing a marked increase in street traffic through narrow residential streets and serious issues with parking. A large increase in student numbers would make those problems much worse. No further development should be considered unless it is accompanied by the appropriate infrastructure development to manage the flow of people in and out of the area.
Yours sincerely
Mardi McConnochie