Locals slam proposed unit block in East Brisbane as bulky

A developer says a controversial new riverfront unit complex should be greenlit despite new planning laws that would sink it soon coming into effect. But locals are biting back.

A DEVELOPER is arguing it should be allowed to build a 10-storey residential block, six weeks before it would be forbidden under an incoming neighbourhood plan.

However, neighbours have called for the proposal in East Brisbane to be rejected, labelling Arden Property’s application as “bulky” and “just a joke.”

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Arden Property submitted plans to build 26 units at 18 Park Ave in November last year, saying it will leave a “compelling and long-lasting legacy for architectural outcomes.”

However plans show the building’s cover of the site’s area would be 55.4 per cent, well above the 40 per cent limit set to be imposed on February 28, when the new Kangaroo Point Peninsula Neighbourhood Plan comes into effect.

Council town planners have also questioned the size of the building, asking the developer to “provide a more appropriate balance between built form and open space.”

A render of the proposed development, which will be 10-storeys tall. Picture: PD Online/Arden.

“The amended neighbourhood plan will come into effect on 28 February and will therefore not come into effect before the application is due to be decided,” the developer’s response said.

Arden also argued that two nearby developments, approved in 2016 and 2017, covered over 59 per cent of their sites and therefore set a precedent.

Residents have since expressed concern the new building would shade and impact on neighbouring Mowbray Park.

“It’s just going to dominate that corner,” Bill te Kloot, chairman for a neighbouring building’s body corporate, said.

“It’s just a joke, it’s just so huge.”

Locals claim the development is too bulky. Picture: PD Online/Arden.

“The council standard is 40 per cent (site cover),” Mr te Kloot said.

“There are a set of rules that have been approved by council, that have been broadcast, and the developer is just completely ignoring them,” he said.

A series of submissions to council have also expressed concern about traffic along the small side streets and impacts on the neighbouring Mowbray Park.

Arden Property has been contacted for comment.