Association objects to 150m long metal fence

The Wagstaffe-Killcare Community Association has written to Central Coast Council objecting to a 150 metre long two metre high metal fence at the top of Wards Hill Rd "at the entrance to the peninsula".

Association vice-president Mr Mike Allsop described the fence as "completely out of character for the area" and "having been erected without consent".

"We understand the desire of the owners to fence the property, but would encourage them to submit a design with see-through characteristics with suitable landscaping to comply with local planning requirements and to enhance the entrance to our area.

"This would also demonstrate a level of respect and inclusivity for the community, and would be well received."

Mr Allsop said the owners had submitted a development application since erecting the fence to move part of it one metre back to enable some planting to be installed in front of it, while leaving the remainder as was.

"The DA was advertised and community responses sought via the standard process," Mr Allsop said.

"Along with others, the association lodged a considered response relating to Council's own Development Control Plan, Local Environment Plan and Character Statement for the area.

"Our response was shared at the community meeting on July 9, and strongly endorsed.

"In essence, we have highlighted that the nature of the fence (an opaque visual barrier) and its position close to the boundary contravenes all local planning requirements, particularly the open scenic character specified for this area, and should be removed forthwith.

"This applies not just to the section subject to the DA, but to the entire run of fence along the Wards Hill Rd boundary to the property," Mr Allsop said.

"We have also written directly to Mayor Cr Jane Smith, noting the inconsistencies in process which seem to have accompanied this matter over the last nine months or so.

"In response to community concerns Councillors have flagged this DA to be considered at an upcoming Council meeting, possibly in August," Mr Allsop said.

SOURCE:

Newsletter, 26 Jul 2018

Mike Allsop, WTKCA