Instant backlash over Merc Capital plan for series of ‘iconic skyscrapers’ for The Hills

‘Serious concerns’ have been raised from Baulkham Hills state Liberal MP David Elliott and Hills Shire Mayor Michelle Byrne over ground breaking plans by Merc Capital to build a series of ‘iconic skyscrapers at landmark locations in The Hills.

• ‘Iconic skyscrapers’ planned for The Hills

‘Serious concerns’ have been raised from Baulkham Hills state Liberal MP David Elliott and Hills Shire Mayor Michelle Byrne over ground breaking plans by Merc Capital to build a series of ‘iconic skyscrapers at landmark locations in The Hills.

Mr Elliott revealed to the Times he has already written Cr Byrne and newly appointed NSW Planning Minister Rob Stokes to address his concerns around the proposals for the $500 million plans for four skyscrapers at the Norwest Hotel site and three more high-rise towers at the entrance to the Sydney Metro station.

David Elliott has already objected to the developers plans.

“I have written to the Mayor Michelle Byrne, objecting to the planning proposals, and invited the Minister for Planning, Rob Stokes, to the Baulkham Hills electorate to see first-hand the urgent need for the completion of community infrastructure projects before any further development occurs,” Mr Elliott said.

“While there may be no direct link between building heights and density and adverse impact on the liveability of an area, I have warned that an adverse impact is inevitable where infrastructure projects are completed after increased density occurs.

“For as long as I am the Member for Baulkham Hills, I will not be supporting gazetted amendments, large-scale development applications or rezoning until the infrastructure backlog across my electorate is cleared.”

Artist impressions for the redevelopment of 34-46 Brookhollow Ave, Norwest, which is being pitched as a landmark 'central plaza' development at the heart of the business park.

In his letter addressing his concerns, Mr Elliott called for “any future proposals which fail to implement long-overdue and much-needed infrastructure to support the needs of existing and future residents” should be opposed.

Mr Elliott said work has not been completed on Memorial Ave, Fairway Dr, Samantha Riley Dr, Balmoral Rd, Windsor and Old Windsor roads, Sydney Metro and NorthConnex.

Hills Shire Mayor Michelle Byrne.

While Cr Byrne hit out at the plans, declaring the metro “cannot be used as an excuse to dump in as much density as possible into the Hills”, claiming there was no regard to the supporting infrastructure required to support increased density.

“The roads through the business park and onto the main arterials are already congested during peak without the addition of more over the top developments,” she said.

“I am fed up with the push for higher and higher densities, with no consideration for the impact on local infrastructure and no consideration of the wants and needs of local residents who call the Hills home.

“Every day I am contacted by local residents concerned with over development, congestion on our roads and the need for more infrastructure to support a growing population such as upgraded roads, sporting fields, open space, cycleways and footpaths.”