Mixed feelings on DA

SHELLHARBOUR councillors at their last meeting voted to allow a development to occur on Addison Avenue, Lake Illawarra.

This green light has caused fury amongst local residents who are demanding to know why the development, which does not comply with council requirements, is being allowed to go ahead.

The development will see the existing shop removed and a "mixed use" building constructed complete with car parking for 15 vehicles, six storage areas for each residential unit, a garbage/recycling area and two commercial tenancies on the ground floor, four two bedroom units on the first floor and two three bedroom units on the second floor.

Shellharbour Council Senior Development Assessment Officer Cathy Bern recommended councillors refuse the development application based on a number of reasons including the three storey height of the building, the inadequacy of disabled car parking and floor space ratio requirements.

Paul Nolan, whose property backs onto Addison Lane, said he feels duped by councillors, one of who he said assured him the development would not be approved.

He said he recently spent a large sum of money developing his own property, adding a swimming pool.

"There is no way in the world I would have developed my site had I known something like this would be able to be approved," he said.

He is concerned the building will impact on his privacy.

"I don't want a three storey building looking into my backyard."

Ward councillors for the area John Leedham and Tim Hore have assured the Lake Times the development will not impact on the privacy of residents in adjoining blocks.

"The privacy issue has been addressed," said Mr Leedham.

"Screening and landscaping will be used. The privacy of residents will not be compromised at all."

He said he believes the development will be a new beginning for the area, encouraging other businesses to revamp themselves and bringing more people into the area causing a successful business and heightening security for local residents.

"This development will be great for the area which has been neglected for 20 years."

Mr Hore said he also believes this development will breathe new life into the area. "There is an opportunity for increased employment and it leads the way for affordable housing," he said.