Developer hits back at critics of subdivision

THE proponent behind a planned 44-lot subdivision in the heritage town of Richmond says the development will benefit the community.

A development application has been submitted to Clarence City Council by Ian Creese on behalf of his deceased brother David Creese for a subdivision of 44 residential lots, a footway and roads located about 400m east of the Richmond Bridge.

However, a groundswell of residents oppose the development, with concerns about the subdivision’s impact on town infrastructure and heritage.

Mr Creese on Monday said the proposal would benefit the 1800s town, saying it would enhance businesses and services.

“There’s been a lot of time and effort put into this plan and all the residents have known it was coming for over three years,” he said. “I would’ve thought in the current housing situation it’s a good thing and I would’ve thought the town’s services would benefit.”

When asked about community concern at the impact on infrastructure, Mr Creese said it was not his place to say.

“That’s where expert consultants come in for assessment and in this instance the reports are looking favourable for the area,” he said.

“I would hope the Clarence City Council aldermen see the benefits of the proposal.”

The development application shows traffic movements to and from the site were calculated to increase by 380 vehicles a day in total, with a predicted 120 vehicles a day using the subdivision road to St Johns Circle and about 260 vehicles a day using the subdivision road to Wellington St.

Richmond Community Group’s James Mancey said residents had been afforded little consultation.

“We are not opposed to development, we are just about getting it right for the community,” he said. “Concerns remain over the town’s infrastructure and how it would cope.”

A Richmond community meeting will be held on Saturday at the Village Green.

Representations to the council close on January 2.