An approved development on Barrenjoey Road in Palm Beach, has drawn significant attention, with local residents voicing concerns about its potential impact on the area.
Consent for the development at 1102 Barrenjoey Rd was granted under development application (DA2022/0469), despite strong opposition and earlier rejections by NBC’s planning panel.
Local residents have expressed frustration over the approval process, arguing that the development’s design will overshadow the heritage-listed Barrenjoey House, limit sunlight for neighbouring properties, and disrupt the coastal suburb’s aesthetic harmony.
The development proposes a structure exceeding the 8.5-metre height limit outlined in the Pittwater Local Environmental Plan. The approved design includes street-facing dormer windows at 10.3 metres (21.1% over the limit), a parapet reaching 11.5 metres (31.1% over), clerestory windows at 11 metres (29.4% over), and a rooftop plant enclosure measuring 10.8 metres (27% over). These features have raised significant concerns about the bulk, scale, and harmony of the development with Palm Beach’s established character.
One resident described the building as “a bulky structure that not only flaunts height restrictions but is of an ugly, pretentious post-modern design; a complete anachronism.” Many in the community feel their concerns about preserving Palm Beach’s character have been overlooked.
Council’s earlier rejection of similar plans in 2023 April had been celebrated by residents. However, their optimism waned when experts and lawyers accepted amended plans, leading to court approval via Consent Orders in 2024 September. Critics argue that the amended plans were virtually identical to the earlier rejected design, leaving key community concerns unresolved.
However, Acting Commissioner A. Thorpe’s judgment emphasised the alignment of Council and expert evidence over objections raised by residents, noting that the proposal complied with the necessary technical standards and planning controls, despite exceeding height restrictions.
Next Steps for Residents
Residents are exploring potential avenues to appeal the decision. Advocacy groups are encouraging continued community engagement in the processes to ensure greater consideration of public input in future developments. Details of the court’s judgment are available on the NSW Caselaw website.
Residents and advocacy groups remain committed to preserving the unique character of Palm Beach and addressing concerns about urban development that might set a precedent for similar projects.
This case highlights the ongoing tension between development ambitions and the preservation of Palm Beach’s coastal charm, leaving many residents questioning how to balance growth with community values.
Published 24-Dec-2024
