Residents fear council has given up on them

WHAT started six years ago as a proposal for an 11-storey block with 22 units has mushroomed to 16 storeys and 73 units. Fed-up residents of this Brisbane suburban street vented their fury at the weekend, with fears their concerns are being ignored.

Irma Muller and other St Lucia residents are fighting plans for another highrise, this time at 160 Macquarie St. Picture: AAP/Richard Walker

• Battle for Macquarie St

RESIDENTS in an upmarket St Lucia street fear they might have lost a battle against a highrise project which has mushroomed in size in the past six years.

They staged a rally on the weekend about 160 Macquarie St, which began as an 11-storey, 22-unit project.

But after several owners and six development applications it now includes 73 units over 16 stories.

Shadow Planning Chair, Councillor Jared Cassidy, had planned to bring on debate about it at last Tuesday’s Council meeting but ran out of time after much of the 30-minute session was taken up by debate from Cr Jonathan Sri (The Gabba) on other matters.

Planning Committee Chair, Cr Julian Simmonds (Walter Taylor) said Council officers were awaiting further information from the developer about any impacts on a huge fig tree at the front of the property which was classified as significant by the Council.

Cr Julian Simmonds says Council will ensure a huge fig tree at the site is protected. Picture: Richard Walker

“The protection of the mature fig tree has been a key assessment point in the previous applications on this site, and it is with this application also,’’ he said.

“Council has been very clear when assessing previous plans that the fig tree should not be impacted or threatened in any way.

“Council is also reviewing potential traffic and parking impacts as a result of the proposed change in the number of units.’’

Cr Simmonds denied claims from one resident that the development was subject to a “delegated determination’’ and merely needed the green light from Council officers.

“Council assesses all aspects of development applications against City Plan, in full accordance with State Government planning laws. No decision has been made.’’