Kensington residents, traders oppose Peregrine helipad plans

Many Kensington traders, residents and the church community are united in opposition to a helipad proposed for Peregrine Corporation’s seven-storey redevelopment of its head office on The Parade.

Many Kensington traders, residents and the church community are united in opposition to a helipad proposed for Peregrine Corporation’s seven-storey redevelopment of its head office on The Parade.

Peregrine, parent company of OTR, will this month present an environmental impact report into the helipad — which it says will be used fewer than 10 times a year — to the State Government.

However, Sisters of Saint Joseph director Sheila McCreanor said it would be an “unfortunate addition” to the area.

She said the Sisters, based on Thornton St, a short walk from Peregrine’s head office, planned to build 11 independent living units by late 2020.

“It (a helipad) will have a big impact on their lives,” Sister McCreanor said.

“It’s the noise factor, it’s an invasion of privacy.”

She welcomed the huge employment that OTR created in SA, but said a helipad was a bridge too far.

“We respect their desire to use their facilities, but we would find it rather intrusive,” she said.

“It’s asking a bit much of the community.

“It could be a distraction as people drive along Portrush Rd.”

Peregrine Corporation’s proposed new head office in Kensington. Source: MPH Architects

Clayton Wesley Uniting Church Minister Paul Turley said it was difficult to understand the justification for intrusive, helicopter noise in a residential area.

“I have certainly had local residents tell me of their frustration in not feeling heard in the development process for the building because of it being taken out of the hands of council,” Mr Turley said.

Tony Franzon says he has no problem with Peregrine Corporation’s plans for a helipad at its Kensington headquarters. Picture: Bianca De Marchi

Kate, who did not want to provide her last name, works near Peregrine’s head office.

She was the helipad plan was “fanciful”.

“It’s inconsiderate to the community,” Kate said.

A Kensington resident, who did not wish to be named, said the plan was bothering “everyone” in the neighbourhood.

Pam Ballantyne, who works at Browse In and Save on The Parade, described the helipad plan as “opulent”, while store manager Victoria Scholz said it was a “bit stupid”.

“I would not want one near my house,” Mrs Scholz said.

“What for? Why? Money talks doesn’t it? It’s a bit selfish.”

However, Bath Hotel owner Tony Franzon could not see what the issue was.

“It’s not like Vietnam when helicopters are leaving every two minutes,” Mr Franzon said.

“Why are people objecting to it?

“I think people have nothing to worry about. Other than it crashing.

“If it was leaving at 10am, and coming back at 6pm, what’s the problem?”

Peregrine was contacted for comment.