‘We’ll chain ourselves to our house’: Nairne couple vow to fight compulsory acquisition
A Nairne couple has vowed to chain themselves to their home “just like they did on The Castle” over a plan to upgrade a T-junction outside their property.
Adelaide Hills
Don't miss out on the headlines from Adelaide Hills. Followed categories will be added to My News.
- An apple a day helps the Hills recover
- Homes will be acquired to fix Nairne’s dangerous intersection
- Get more from your Advertiser subscription
A Hills couple say they will fight to protect their property from construction of a $5 million roundabout in Nairne.
John Howard and his partner Melissa Rayner believe their property is among nine that the State Government will fully or partially acquire to fix the dangerous intersection at the corner of Woodside Rd and Old Princes Highway at Nairne.
The couple say they have been left in the dark over proposed changes to the T-junction, after two failed attempts to contact the Department of Transport, Infrastructure and Local Government.
The couple, who live at 10 Old Prince Highway, say they will now fight the proposed development as they believe they will lose part of their front yard, including driveway access.
“If I have to, I will chain myself on to my property, just like they did in The Castle, they are not taking my land,” Mr Howard said.
“We will fight this, as will our neighbours. They can’t just take our homes, or portion of it.
“We’ve also been told that land valuations have come back at $300,000 for our properties – if that’s all they are going to offer us, they will have a fight on their hands.”
The owner of 2 Woodside Rd, who did not want to be named, also said she was unaware of the proposed works.
A Transport, Infrastructure and Local Government spokesman said residents were well informed during the planning process and they were supportive of a roundabout.
“All property affected property owners have been advised and the department has spoken or met with all affected owners,” he said.
“Property acquisition is a very sensitive issue and we will continue to work with the community and property owners to provide as much detail as possible throughout this process to minimise disruption and inconvenience.”