The owners behind a large mixed-use development project at the southern end of the Byron CBD are seeking to make substantial changes to both the design and size of the project.
But the modification proposal may not get through Byron Council when it comes before this week’s planning meeting, with planning staff recommending refusal on nine separate grounds.
The owner was given approval back in August 2022 to turn a warehouse at 156 Jonson St into a $13.65m mixed-use development that was to include a Harris Farm Market, office premises and the construction of a two-storey car park.
However, in April this year, it submitted a modification application that was, in the words of Council staff, ‘not substantially the same development as originally approved’.
The modification proposes increasing the multi-deck car parking from two to three storeys, thereby increasing the number of car parking levels to the adjoining residential units and increasing the number of car parks by 25.
The original plan for an entry plaza on the rail line side of the development that could connect to a future rail trail has been abandoned, replaced by loading areas.
These and other changes created multiple issues, according to Council staff, including increased noise impacts for nearby residents, the loss of a promised solar panel array, and increased challenges with truck manoeuvrability.
‘The proposed modification is not substantially the same development as originally approved,’ Patricia Docherty from Council’s planning and services team said in her report on the application.
Poor design outcomes
‘The proposal represents poor design outcomes compared to the approved design, and is not considered to present a clear public benefit.’
More than a dozen public submissions opposing the proposal have been received by Byron Council, including a number from residents of the neighbouring Seadrift residential building.
‘The increase to three levels will significantly increase the intrusion of light and noise into the Seadrift residential complex,’ one local resident said.
‘The original development approval already imposed a significant impact on the use of the residents’ courtyards, and the complex’s shared recreational facilities.’
The developer behind the project is listed as ‘156 Jonson St Pty Ltd’, which appears to be a unit trust.
The Echo sought to make contact with the developer and is awaiting a response.
The matter will come before this Thursday’s Council planning meeting.
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