A public meeting was called to provide background, updated information, and the opportunity for the community to engage with each other, both at that meeting, and as the proposed development proceeds.
A large mixed-use Suffolk Park DA proposed by Sydney-based property development company Denwol was rejected in the Land & Environment Court after mediation failed in October 2023.
A group of us met with two representatives from the developer’s team on Friday, at their invitation, so we could be better informed for the meeting on Saturday. It was pleasing that these two representatives were also at this meeting along with the lead architect helping to answer questions and provide clarity.
The meeting was well attended with around 60 people in attendance. We thought it was vital to respond to community calls for a public meeting because we only saw the plans for the development concept last week, and people had to be informed prior to the private information sessions conducted by the developer’s team Wednesday and Thursday this week.
Traffic and parking
Whilst there were many issues raised at the meeting, those dominant concerned traffic congestion and parking.
A point raised many times was that, irrespective as to how good the proposed development may be, it had to be viewed in the context of current and future traffic issues at the very dangerous intersection of Clifford Street and Broken Head Road.
The updated Metis report suggested that traffic would be increasing by around 70 per cent over the next two decades, which is going to bring greater pressure on the roads and parking in Beachside Suffolk Park.
The issue of the role of the SPPA leadership in this development was raised by the president at the end of the meeting, but it was considered more appropriate to address these issues at a Special General Meeting of the SPPA next week.
The public meeting was meant to be independent of the SPPA and the developer.
The architect noted at the end of the meeting that it was very well run, and one of the most amicable in his experience. It was great to see the community taking up the opportunity to come together to discuss the development concept from its inception.
Lynne Richardson and Tony Christy are partners and both former members of SPPA.
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