Possible changes to unit complex development worries residents

Possible changes to a development application on Brisbane’s bayside has residents worried but the developer dismisses those concerns.

The vacant land at corner of 195 Stratton Tce, Manly. Picture: AAP/Richard Walker

RESIDENTS on Brisbane’s bayside are concerned possible changes to a residential unit complex development in Manly could damage the character of the area.

A development application for 49 units at 195 Stratton Tce in Manly was previously approved by the Brisbane City Council but developers DeMartini Fletcher then lodged a second application on June 28 this year, which reduced the number of units to 43 and retail space from 900 sqm to 140 sqm.

The second application has received 55 submissions opposing the development, with some residents believing the height was increased to exceed the limit allowed by council in the neighbourhood plan.

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Tacant land at 195 Stratton Tce, Manly. Picture: AAP/Richard Walker

A concerned resident, who did not want to be named, said the height of the development, as well as carparking issues, were the main concerns for people who opposed the development.

But development director from DeMartini Fletcher, John Lunney, said they were working within the framework of the previously approved application.

The concerned resident believed a height change in the second application, would seriously obstruct views of the bayside.

“I also believe that the second application has kind of gone under the radar and it hasn’t really been properly advertised,” he said.

“I think a lot of people believe it is just the initial application which was approved, but this one is different and there are so many objections, there’s been a lot of submissions against it. I think the issues with carparking the development would bring would also be an issue, with cars on the street and things like that.”

Proposed development at Stratton Tce, Manly.

Brisbane City Council city planning chair Matthew Bourke said during public notification from August 15 to September 13, council received 55 submissions from residents, with a majority opposing the plan.

“Council is currently assessing the application,” he said.

Mr Lunney said DeMartini Fletcher’s intent was to deliver the best project possible for the Manly Village and its residents.

“We have been working with BCC over the last nine months through their consultative DesignSMART,” he said.

“Our application has taken reference from the existing approval in terms of height with a similar a four-storey profile. The carparking numbers comply with the current City Plan requirements. We believe the proposed design responds well to the current market demands with less retail, more public space and extensive landscape areas.”

ALP Councillor (Wynnum Manly) Peter Cumming said he had seen the plans for the second application and believed it was superior to the initial development.

“Many have claimed the new proposal would result in a building which is taller than the original,” he said.

“I support this objection if it is true but it has been denied by the developers.”