Nowra NIMBYS unite to block controversial Douglas St childcare centre plans

Dozens of NIMBYS have rallied against a proposed childcare centre fit for 109 children in a residential South Coast street, citing everything from traffic congestion and noise, to fears of house price depreciation and safety risks.

Artist impression of the proposed Douglas St childcare centre. Picture: Supplied

A proposed two-storey childcare in a residential South Coast town is on the verge of being scrapped after dozens of NIMBYS come together to rally against the project.

The development application for 26 Douglas St, Nowra, submitted by JIH Building Design in March this year, seeks to demolish existing dwellings and construct a 109-place childcare facility.

Planning documents also reveal construction would include major landscaping at the block.

But despite the growing need for childcare in the Shoalhaven region, the proposed centre’s location in a purely residential pocket has sparked fierce resistance from dozens of NIMBYS, who say it would negatively impact their street.

Of the 37 public submissions received during the consultation period, a staggering 33 were opposed to the build, while a measly four were in favour.

The childcare facility is proposed for a residential Nowra pocket. Picture: Supplied

Multiple petitions with more than 250 signatures against the childcare centre’s construction were also penned and provided to Shoalhaven Council for consideration.

The pushback cites everything from traffic congestion and noise, to fears of house price depreciation and safety risks.

Plans were submitted in March this year. Picture: Supplied

“I’m objecting due to the visual amenity of the building, the commercial nature of the business in a residential location, and the significant amount of increased traffic and subsequent impact,” resident Nicole Gordon wrote.

Another objecting submission by Roy Edwards claimed “the character of the area will change with noise, traffic, and other disruptions”.

Other concerns raised by multiple residents included insufficient infrastructure, parking shortages, and general disruption to the street’s “peaceful character”.

However, some residents, albeit just a handful, support the proposal, citing the growing region’s need for new childcare facilities.

Planning documents reveal existing dwellings would need to be demolished. Picture: Supplied

“There is an increasing need for quality childcare in the area and this proposal would help fill this need,” resident Hilary McKirdy said.

The strong opposition against the proposed centre has not been lost on Shoalhaven Council, with councillor Selena Clancy penning a motion to be heard at council’s Tuesday meeting, asking the local government body to consider voting down the development.

“There is significant community concern regarding the development application,” she said.

Ms Clancy said council needed to consider the 33 objecting submissions and the high level of community feedback compared to previously proposed childcare centres in the region.

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Originally published as Nowra NIMBYS unite to block controversial Douglas St childcare centre plans