Bid to block Mermaid Beach unit complex fails after lengthy court battle
A resident’s bid to block a unit complex being built near one of the Gold Coast’s most prestigious streets has failed after a lengthy court battle. HOW IT PLAYED OUT
Central
Don't miss out on the headlines from Central. Followed categories will be added to My News.
A resident’s bid to block a unit complex being built near one of the Gold Coast’s most prestigious streets has failed after a lengthy court battle.
Gold Coaster Matthew Lawrence started legal action after the Gold Coast City Council approved a four-storey, 12 unit complex at 21 William St – just metres away from up-market Hedges Ave in Mermaid Beach.
Mr Lawrence was not the only person in the area to object to the development, with a further 914 submissions made against the building to the council.
He claimed the unit complex was too tall and would ruin housing affordability in the area.
The median home price in Mermaid Beach is already $2.3m for house and $582,521 for units.
The proposed development included four levels, a roof terrace with barbecue and lounge areas and an underground carpark.
All but one of the units will be three bedrooms. The final unit, on the ground floor will have just one bedroom.
Mr Lawrence argued in the Planning and Environment Court that this proposal by Tuija Investments Pty Ltd was inappropriate for the area.
Judge William Everson wrote in his argument: “(Mr Lawrence) argues that demolishing the seven existing more affordable dwelling units to construct the proposed development would diminish housing affordability in the locality.”
Judge Everson did not agree with that argument, pointing out the already high median house and unit prices.
“(Mr Lawrence) concedes that there is not discreet council policy for the provision of affordable housing in Mermaid Beach,” he wrote.
Judge Everson also took into account the more than 900 submissions made to council against the development.
“While these submissions are entitled to weight, they cannot outweigh what the planning scheme contemplates as appropriate development for the circumstances where it is ‘the reflection of the public interest in the appropriate development of land’,” he said.
“The planning scheme is where reasonable community expectations for development are to be found.”
Judge Everson said he found the proposed development complied with the planning scheme.
He said if there were any non-compliances they were “minor in the context of what is proposed”.
Judge Everson described the proposal as the rejuvenation of an outdated complex.
More Coverage
‘Let’s unlock it’: Controversial ‘skyrail’ to be revived
One of the Gold Coast’s most controversial and divisive projects – a $170m cableway in the Hinterland – is back on the agenda. HERE’S WHY
Gold Coast teacher accused of exposing himself to students
A high school teacher who was stood down after being charged with exposing himself to students remained silent on the allegations after facing court for the first time.