UPDATE: Residents of Sydney’s lower north shore are escalating their fight against plans to expand Woolwich Marina, threatening to more than triple its capacity for luxury vessels. The proposed development aims to increase the number of berths from 45 to 79, sparking fierce opposition among locals who fear it will obstruct views of heritage sites and privatize public waterways.
JUST ANNOUNCED: A petition spearheaded by Save Our Shores has gathered over 700 signatures in just a matter of days, indicating strong community disapproval. Spokeswoman Beverley Bennett states that the expansion would create a “wall of boats,” effectively alienating the harbour from the public and compromising the safety of local sailors.
The $8.5 million redevelopment plan has faced setbacks before, as both the Hunters Hill Council and the Sydney North Planning Panel previously rejected earlier proposals. In a dramatic turn, Sydney-based Micheal Fountain Architects is now appealing to the NSW Land and Environment Court for consent to proceed with the revised proposal.
The council has reported receiving 570 submissions regarding the revised plan, with the majority expressing opposition. In a rare move, the council is seeking public donations to cover escalating legal costs, which have reached an alarming $378,000.
In a statement, the council urged the court to dismiss the new proposal, citing significant concerns about “unacceptable impacts on the character, amenity, and use of the area by the public.” They highlighted that the development could lead to the effective privatization of a considerable portion of Sydney Harbour for private benefit.
The proposed changes would shift the marina westward and eliminate 10 existing swing moorings, while maintaining a ban on large party boats. However, local residents remain unconvinced that these adjustments will mitigate the adverse effects on the area.
The urgency of this situation cannot be understated. With the community rallying against the expansion, the court’s upcoming decision will be critical in determining the future of Woolwich Marina and its impact on Sydney Harbour.
Residents and environmental advocates are calling on the public to support their cause, arguing that preserving the harbour is vital for the Sydney community and future generations. The fight continues, and as developments unfold, the outcome remains uncertain.
Stay tuned for further updates on this pressing issue affecting Sydney’s iconic waterfront.
