Seniors' flats approved

Gosford Council has approved the construction of two residential flats for seniors housing, following the demolition of an existing dwelling in Bangalow St, Ettalong.

The proposal was previously refused by Council's Independent Development and Environment Panel on May 11 due to the proposed variation regarding the front setback and the applicant's failure to address previous matters raised by Council on March 8.

The applicant resubmitted the proposal after an engineering consultant prepared preliminary plans for the access crossing, layback, kerb and gutter, stormwater drainage and footpath as required by Council prior to determination of the original application.

The applicant also submitted amended plans regarding the non-compliant front setback.

One public submission was received in relation to the application which detailed concern about the impact tree removal would have on native bird and animals.

Council's director of environment and planning Ms Colleen Worthy-Jennings responded to the submission and said the trees nominated for removal did not contain significant habitat features for any threatened fauna species.

The submission also argued that infrastructure, including water, may not be sufficient and there were already a number of vacant villas in the area.

Ms Worthy-Jennings noted that there was currently insufficient supply to provide for the needs of the senior community and charges would be applicable regarding infrastructure upgrading.

Gosford Council agenda ENV.90, 6 Nov 2012