Residents fight $22m northern beaches seniors living plan
A Frenchs Forest site which has been subject to several controversial applications over recent years, is again in the spotlight following plans to build 41 independent living units.
Residents are fighting controversial plans for a $22 million seniors living development on the northern beaches.
Applicant Dukor 24 Pty has submitted a proposal for 41 independent living units in fields off Oxford Falls Rd, Frenchs Forest.
The site has been subject to several controversial applications over recent years.
Most recently a 71 bed aged care facility was approved for the site despite local opposition.
The fresh plans “largely utilise the existing building footprint,” the developer has said.
The 71 room — approved but not built — facility will be replaced with 42 individual living units while the carparking provided would increase from 36 to 95 spaces.
The new plans also include facilities including a gym, pool and physio room.
In its proposal to Northern Beaches Council the developer argues the facility will provide much needed high quality seniors housing along with excellent facilities.
“The significant social benefits provided by the proposed development outweigh any potential impacts and therefore, in our opinion, its approval is in the public interest,” the developer added.
However not everyone is in agreement.
Among those to issue their objections to the plan are the Duffys Forest Residents’ Association.
The group has raised a number of issues including what they claim is poor urban design and a negative impact on the Narrabeen Lagoon Catchment.
Frenchs Forest resident Ellen Jackett submitted to council that it was not suitable with regards access.
“The address of the proposed facility is Oxford Falls Road, and it defies all logic to try
and utilise Myra St and Barnes Rd as access points, rather than Oxford Falls Rd which has been designed for heavier vehicles and traffic volumes,” she wrote.
Fellow residents Mark and Leanne Antico said they “strongly object” given the ever increasing density in the area.
“When we purchased and moved to Frenchs Forest some 30 years ago it was because it wasn’t over crowded,” they wrote. “It was a quiet area that was safe and good for our children to thrive in.
“There was an abundance of trees and wildlife that was beautiful to enjoy. The streets were quiet. It was a pleasure to go for a walk after work.”
The development is set to be determined in the coming weeks.
IN OTHER NEWS
Aussie quartet make sailing history with win in women’s America’s Cup
For the first time in 174 years Australian women have set sail in an America’s Cup. How the quartet on Andoo Australia are faring as the Pool B Racing begins.
Future Olympians! Try-fectas, close calls in Next Gen 7s battles
There were blowouts, close calls, a hot boot and multiple try-fectas in the opening round of the Next Gen Sevens rugby series in Sydney. Stars, great photos and Rd 1 result wrap.