Sydney East Planning Panel approves White City’s redevelopment alterations
It’s played host to some of the most historic moments in Australian tennis history, including a famous comeback from the legendary Pat Rafter, now the $45 million plan to revive the derelict White City is on track.
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Despite objections from two schools, parents and local residents, Hakoah FC’s proposed $45 million White City redevelopment is on track after the Sydney East Planning Panel approved its latest alterations.
Sydney Grammar School principal Richard Malpass was one of 16 people who spoke in objection to the sprawling attempt to revitalise the site once dubbed “blight city” at last week’s meeting.
The extent of the neglect of the dilapidated historic stadium in Paddington was revealed by the Wentworth Courier in 2014.
NPL outfit Hakoah has been waiting on a series of approvals since taking ownership of the site.
The panel, chaired by former Labor MP Carl Scully, voted three to two in favour of approving modifications to its concept proposal.
The two who opposed are Woollahra Councillors Toni Zeltzer and deputy mayor Mary-Lou Jarvis, who voted to defer the application so that Hakoah could address issues surrounding traffic and child safety, given its proximity to schools.
Works cannot begin yet, however, as Hakoah now has to submit a development application with Woollahra Council which will include details of the SEPP’s latest approval for its concept.
Grammar head Dr Malpass was joined in unison with Glenmore Road Public School P & C’s James Dolton, who argued against the project over concerns about the level of traffic.
Grammar’s Preparatory School campus and Glenmore Road Public School’s are just metres from the proposed construction site.
Other objectors included the Lawson Street North Residents Association and the Paddington Society.
Ali Linz, who joined the Hakoah board this year in its attempt to redevelop White City, did not respond to requests for comment at the time of publication.
As part of its plans to revive White City, the club is proposing to build an indoor multi-sports centre, a function centre and a soccer pitch as it plans to make the site its new home.
The alterations approved by the panel include building envelopes, indicative uses, vehicle access, carparking and its heritage interpretation strategy.
White City holds a historic place in Australian tennis lore, playing host to some of the most inspiring sporting triumphs before its demise.
In 1997, the now-derelict stands were filled with supporters cheering on as Pat Rafter famously came back from two sets down against Frenchman Cedric Pioline in a Davis Cup tie.
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