Giant rainwater tank at Magill needs planning application, council says
The giant water tank that appeared next to Branko Soda’s Magill home without any warning attracted national attention – and now there’s been a significant development.
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Public submissions have been called for a planning application lodged for a huge rainwater tank at Magill.
Campbelltown Council told resident Ronald Greer he had to obtain official permission for the tank because of its size.
Under planning regulations, approval must be given for structures or objects with a footprint exceeding 15sq m. The rainwater tank is 15.02sq m.
Mr Greer has lodged a Category 3 planning application, which means there must be public notification calling for submissions.
The tank attracted national media attention when Mr Greer’s neighbour, Branko Soda, complained about its proximity to his house.
Mr Soda returned from an interstate holiday to find the 40,000-litre plastic tank had been put on his boundary next to his front veranda.
“I was just blown away,” he said. “The thing is a monstrosity and has blocked my view.”
Mr Soda said he was seeing a solicitor on Wednesday morning to discuss his submission to Campbelltown Council.
“I am getting it done professionally,” he said. “I want this thing moved away from my house.”
Mr Soda said he had also consulted two engineers and a plumber about the rainwater tank.
“They have offered to put in submissions about what they think about it,” he said.
He said the rainwater tank began leaking last week.
“I’ve got video of it and will be taking it to the solicitor,” he said.
Mr Soda said he wanted Campbelltown Council to order Mr Greer to move the rainwater tank – which is about 600mm from his boundary.
“I have got no problem with the tank so long as it is moved away from my house and I don’t have to look at it anymore,” he said.
Mr Soda said the tank was continuing to cause him considerable stress and anxiety.
“I am not going to stop, it’s just not right,” he said.
Mr Greer’s son Bayden, who installed the rainwater tank, has declined to comment.
Public submissions on the rainwater tank close on December 9.
