I would like to voice my concern about the proposed redevelopment of the Prince of Wales Hotel and the demolition of 43 South Street.
Is the redevelopment of the POW site appropriate for this site according to the local Heritage code? The proposed plan is far larger and higher than the inappropriate POW hotel that stands there today. The proposed design will dominate the beautiful heritage colonial buildings that stand in this historic precinct. If this development were to go ahead, there would be a significant increase in traffic congestion which is already a huge problem for both residents and visitors.
The council are to blame for the demolition of the first Prince of Wales Hotel built on this same site in1843. What a tragedy that this building was demolished in 1967.
Furthermore, 43 South St is to be demolished - a hundred year old house. What a disgrace this would be and it would set a precedence for further demolition - where would this stop?
The construction of the underground car park is a huge concern for neighbouring businesses and houses. The excavation alone could potentially damage the structure and foundation of its buildings nearby.
Where is the allowance for green space for a development of this size? It clearly doesn’t meet minimum standards. No 43 South Street is one of the few houses/ units with substantial trees out the front of their property in this street.
The proposed development goes against the objectives and intent of the local heritage code. Please consider carefully the enormous impact this development would have in the Battery Point precinct if it were to go ahead.
