Neutral Bay’s next high-rise development set for court amid neighbour opposition

Residents living next to one of the north shore’s most prominent buildings fear their homes would be left without sunlight as part of the next major development planned in a north shore suburb.

Residents living next to one of the north shore’s most prominent buildings fear their homes would be left without sunlight as part of the next major development earmarked for Neutral Bay.

Alton Property Group is pushing ahead with a $32.8 million proposal to redevelop the well-known apartment block and seven adjoining buildings on the corner of Military Rd and the Warringah Fwy into 40 new apartments.

Plans to North Sydney Council show homes between 1 and 10 Merlin St would be bulldozed to make way for the new units. The current nine-storey apartment building on the northern end of the site would also undergo modifications and facade upgrades as part of the project.

The development would have 50 carpark spaces, communal open space, a swimming pool, ‘edible gardens’, a water feature and open lawn with a barbecue.

There would also be rooftop gardens offering harbour views, lounge seating, and dining areas.

A photo of the current building on the corner of Military Rd and Warringah Fwy.

Alton Property Group in its plans state the development would improve the amenity of the area and support demand for new housing.

But neighbour Richard Lennox fears the proposal could block sunlight to neighbouring homes. He said the overshadowing could also cause “dampness” in the surrounding area.

A concept plan of one of the new buildings.

“The size of the building is completely out of character with the street and surrounds,” he said.

“The architecture is not in keeping with the buildings in the street and the amount of natural light blocked and the shadow cast will be deleterious to surrounding buildings.”

A submission on behalf of owner-occupiers of a neighbouring building at 17 Merlin St raised concerns relating to privacy and overshadowing.

“The overshadowing impacts arising from the proposed development will likely result in less than three hours solar access to principal private recreation areas and units in neighbouring buildings,” the submission stated.

“It will also result in a proliferation of overlooking opportunities onto surrounding residential homes.”

The proposal has been lodged to North Sydney Council.

A photo of the existing building.

Alton Property Group in its plans said the development would not cause unreasonable levels of overshadowing.

“This proposal will contribute to the supply of high density housing and provide a mix of apartment size and will also enhance the local economy,” the company said.

“The amenity of adjoining premises has been considered in the design process ensuring that this proposal does not impact on views nor does the built form cause unreasonable levels of overshadowing to adjoining premises.”

Plans recognised the prominence of the site, which is currently bordered by two of the north shore’s busiest roads.

“The site is a gateway to the northern beaches and is visible from multiple points. It frames the view when viewed from Falcon St, likewise it is visible from far off distances from Cahill Expressway as well as Alfred St.”

The proposal has been deemed refused by North Sydney Council and is due to be determined by the Land and Environment Court after Alton Property Group lodged an appeal against the refusal.

The development is the latest high rise plan earmarked for Neutral Bay including a six-storey unit complex at 12-14 Waters St and the redevelopment of the Neutral Bay Woolworths site.