Police shut down ‘illegal activity’ by developers Meriton in Dee Why
Police and Northern Beaches Council have acted swiftly to shut down ‘illegal activity’ by Meriton in Dee Why, on Sydney’s northern beaches — and it could cost the developer thousands of dollars.
Manly
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NORTHERN Beaches Council and the police shut down an illegal road closure by Meriton at Dee Why on Thursday.
The construction company did not have approval from the council or Roads and Maritime Services to close Howard Ave between Pittwater Rd and Avon Ave for two days to dismantle a crane.
While the company notified businesses of the closure on Tuesday, it only detailed the proposed closure to the council just before midnight on Wednesday.
The council is investigating the matter and could issue an infringement of up to $6500 for the breach.
Council CEO Ray Brownlee said all companies needed to comply with the application process.
“We take road closures very seriously,” he said.
“Not only businesses but residents and commuters are affected — factors we take into account when assessing an application.
“Thursday’s reckless breach also had an impact on bus routes that were unaware of the closure because appropriate approvals were not granted.
“This is a lesson to all construction companies that if the appropriate approvals are not sought from the council, illegal activity will be shut down immediately, which is a very expensive exercise for the company.”
The work is now scheduled for next weekend, pending approval.
