Block on building
Locals united to protect open space seek …
SOUTHERN Gold Coasters are worried about a plan to develop previously untouched open space behind their homes, which has been the access way to the former home of a millionaire surf identity.
An application has been submitted to the Gold Coast City Council for a material change of use of the land at lot 907 in Admiral Crescent, Tugun, near the John Flynn Hospital.
The long, thin 11,560sq m private block takes in a private road leading to the so-called “Billabong Bridge’’ across the Tugun Bypass, which was built for surf industry tycoon Gordon Merchant as access to his former home. The strip ranges from about 20m to 30m wide.
Pacific International Development Corporation Pty Ltd (Pacifiq) made submissions to council this year seeking a change to the city plan to reclassify the block for a meway dium-density development instead of its current zoning of “open space”.
The developer argued the suburb was already serviced by parks and any medium density development would not compromise the neighbourhood.
Pacifiq had previously put forward plans for townhouses on the site but ran into issues under the current city plan.
Long-time local Colleen James said the application caught many by surprise as it was made during lockdown.
Having lived in the area for more than 20 years, she said the space was well used and valued by residents
“We had another development for a nursing home in the area so when another sign was put in the same spot, people assumed it was the same thing,” Ms James said.
“There are a number of properties that back on to the land. We use it, it is a nature strip, locals mow it and it is cared for.
“To say it is simply an access is an untruth – it is a valued open space.
“Our fear is once the change of use happens, anything could happen to the site.
“Any build there would cut off the back of everyone’s properties. It would limit privacy and really take away the amenity of the neighbourhood.”
Ms James said a number of residents banded together to keep the suburb informed, but due to coronavirus restrictions had been unable to meet.
“We can’t get our message out there yet the applications against the build close on Tuesday,” she said.
Ms James said she and at least a dozen others had lodged objection letters. The group will spend the weekend outside the Tugun IGA seeking community support.