Neighbourhood development stoush over Darling Point mansion
IT IS that form of anxiety known to many an eastern suburbs resident, and surrounds those prized water views; when will someone land permission to build up and block your coveted aspect? For some residents in Darling Point, that anxiety looks to become real.
Wentworth Courier
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IT IS that form of anxiety known to many an eastern suburbs resident, and surrounds those prized water views; when will someone land permission to build up and block your coveted aspect? For occupants of 11 Sutherland Cres in Darling Point, that anxiety looks to become real.
Already enduring a disruptive rebuild of the mansion next door, they risk losing what little harbour views they have left after the owners made a second application this year.
Woollahra Council had initially refused the $7.5 million redevelopment at 9 Sutherland Cres when it was lodged two years ago.
But the project was given the green light after an appeal by the owner, who is referred to in documents as Ms D J Elkorr, represented by GSA Planning.
Neighbours claim the four-storey mansion which remains under construction has curbed their views and curtailed their sunlight.
And now the second application, lodged earlier this year, seeks to add a $50,000 boat shed and raised planter boxes which neighbours say will further obstruct views.
Lena Naris, who lives in one of the units next door, is among those concerned by the latest application.
Ms Naris, a lawyer, said when she purchased her apartment five years ago she enjoyed full north head harbour views and natural sunlight in every room.
“My view has already been reduced by approximately 70 per cent, however this further DA will reduce that to almost 95 per cent. In addition to this is the complete loss of sunlight, air and greenery,” Ms Naris said. “All unit holders on the northern side of 11 Sutherland Crescent will be similarly impacted.
“The new DA simply should not be approved in any way whatsoever, as it chips away at was already a heavily negotiated and reduced position,” Ms Naris added. “The benefit to one developer should not outweigh the many people significantly affected by this.”
IN OTHER NEWS
In documents submitted to council, GSA Planning acknowledges there will be “minor” impacts to views for residents at number 11.
“The lower level balconies may be subject to some view affectation as a result of the proposal, which is inevitable. As these views are obtained across a side boundary, views are more difficult to maintain,” it reads.