HOMEOWNERS in Riverstone have called on the State Government to reconsider the proposed location of sporting fields as part of the West Schofields Masterplan.
Residents of West Parade rejected draft masterplans for the precinct after it was revealed their properties, just metres from Riverstone station, would be rezoned to pave the way for several sporting fields.
“We agree that the West Schofields precinct has to happen, but they way they have rezoned our properties is wrong and not justifiable,” Denis Uildriks said.
A total of 11 properties would be rezoned if the proposal was approved.
Mr Uildriks said several homeowners ran home businesses, while a horse agistment and training centre would also be acquired by Blacktown Council under the plans.
“No one wants to move, we have lived here for 20 years and I walk to work every day,” he said.
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Residents may be forced to wait up to 20 years for the council to acquire the land, leaving residents in a state of limbo.
“We will be unable to sell our properties and will be on hold until Blacktown Council has the money to acquire our land,” he said.
Mr Uildriks said residents had grave concerns they would be “low-balled” for the value of their properties.
NSW Planning Western Sydney executive director Brett Whitworth said the department’s aim was to remove residents from low-lying flood zones.
“However, the residents of West Parade ... acknowledge they are in a flood zone and they are happy to remain in this area through a revised masterplan.”
Mr Witworth addressed concerns around a 20-year timeframe for land acquisitions.
“Landowners have the ability for council to acquire their land at an earlier stage,” he said.
“If council rejects the applications, landowners can declare hardship consideration and the Finance Department can call on council to acquire the land within a certian timeframe.”
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