Dear Kiama Council
I have several strong objections to this application, as follows:
1. Tree removal. Given the recent events (bushfires) and resultant highly significant threats to our wildlife, I would argue that any proposed tree removal in NSW be considered using a more stringent appraisal system than has been accepted in the past. In simplest terms we must all take responsibility for providing safe haven for wildlife at every opportunity. Failure to do this risks extinction of many species, as is well documented. Kiama Council would not want this as their legacy surely. I strongly argue that ALL of the trees should be retained.
2. Arborists report. I note that the arborists report lists a significant number of the trees as having a high STARS rating and SULE rating, yet conversely recommends removal. In fact the only trees recommended to be protected are those in a neighbouring property. I object in the strongest way to a report that rates tree values highly and still finds a way to recommend removal. On that basis I feel that the report is significantly flawed, as it simply supports the application for tree removal in full, regardless of the value of the trees it is assessing. This makes no sense. A new report should be obtained.
3. Noise assessment. I note that the assessment carries many assumptions, many of which cannot reasonably be enforced. The risk of noise generation in excess of the estimates in terms of decibels, duration, and operational hours, is a very real risk to the amenity of residents. If such excesses occur, the residents have no recourse, and mitigation will be unlikely. Amenity will be significantly eroded if that occurs. This is unacceptable in my view, and is solid reason for rejection of the application.
4. Traffic assessment. Please use common sense. The traffic in this neighbourhood is already excessive in terms of frequency, noise, vehicle size, speed, and sheer risk to people’s lives. The proposed increase is putting this at a tipping point. The affected streets are RESIDENTIAL. Can we please keep this at the forefront of considerations.
In summary I assert that the proposed development application will have a significant detrimental impact on wildlife and residents. I assert that it constitutes “overdevelopment”, and I note that Council’s recent community survey determined that overdevelopment was a major concern to residents. If Council is committed to reducing the impacts of overdevelopment on the amenity of residents, Council must reject this application.
Finally I respectfully ask Council to PLEASE begin to contemplate your decisions from the perspective of local residents amenity ABOVE the developer’s perspective for applications within a residential zone. Continued escalation of light industrial activities in the midst of a residential area makes no sense to any player. Council needs to seriously pursue all options of relocation of industrial activities to a suitable area outside the residential zone so that these applications can proceed more smoothly in the future.
I confirm that I have not made any donations or gifts to Council or councillors.
