Drummoyne Reservoir: Developer to take proposed childcare centre plans to court

A developer’s unique vision of giving toddlers a sky-high view of Sydney by revamping a decommissioned landmark site into a childcare centre is set to go before the courts.

The developer behind the ambitious plan to give tots at an inner west childcare centre sky-high views of the Harbour City will let the court decide on the merit of the unique proposal.

The proposed development would see the iconic Drummoyne Reservoir converted into a facility big enough for 159 kids, featuring a skywalk and rooftop terrace.

The $12 million plans were lodged with Canada Bay Council last June on behalf of owners Ivas Investments and Mike & Shan Pty Ltd.

The view according to the plans.

Drummoyne Reservoir is a historical site in the suburb but has been left abandoned for years.

The Taiwanese-based group is behind the Little Lands childcare brand.

However, records show the developer is now appealing a “deemed refusal” in the Land and Environment Court.

They have been able to take the application to the courts because the council took more than 40 days to assess it.

If it doesn’t go ahead the children would miss out on some of the most enviable views in Sydney.

The reservoir, built in 1915, is heritage listed due to its long history with the Drummoyne community and is the only one in Sydney that features an attached tower as an ornament.

The plan is aiming to build a second building on the site.

But the iconic tower will remain.

The building itself is associated with Sir Thomas Henley, a former four-term mayor of Drummoyne and state parliament MP.

Sydney Water had sold the site in 2018 and had previously described it as a “local landmark” prior to the sale.

Since the proposed childcare centre was first flagged a year ago several residents have filed objections, mostly in regards to parking issues and traffic with the site close to two primary schools.

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