Controversial funeral home proposal withdrawn after residents lodge hundreds of objections

After more than 200 objections­, the controversial proposal for a funeral home on Pittwater Rd in Manly has been withdrawn.

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After more than 200 objections­, the controversial proposal for a funeral home on Pittwater Rd in Manly has been withdrawn.

The development application submitted for White Lady Funerals to operate on the corner of Pittwater Rd and Alexander St was met with huge public opposition this year, with residents arguing they did not want “death and bereavement on their doorstep”.

The proposal was for a change of use to a funeral home including an office, gallery and chapel fitout.

With the site surrounded by a childcare centre, a fitness centre and residential properties, most objections were around traffic and parking congestion.

The home had proposed to hold two services a day, holding up to 40 people each service.

Owner and director of Alexander’s St’s Kid City Kindergarten, Donna Clark, was relieved at the news.

“We are very pleased,” she said.

‘The parking issue was of major concern and it was not fair to clients of the funeral­ home who would not have been able to park as well – it is a major battle,” she said.

Resident Michelle Stewart said she was thankful the applicant Invocare had listened to the residents.

A spokesman from Invocare said it was seeking a site that would enhance the services they already provided.

“In this case we are looking to be able to provide anafter funeral function centre in addition to a chapel. This optimised mix of services couldn’t be provided from the proposed location,” he said.