Annetts Parade Mossy Point NSW 2537
16 lot residential subdivision including associated works (associated infrastructure, road works, earthworks and vegetation clearing)
Re. Development Proposal for Lot 16 Annetts Parade
I would like to take this opportunity to express my concern regarding the development proposed -DA0503 / 24 Mossy Point (Lot 16 DP 1248391).
Firstly, I appreciate that the landowner wishes to capitalise on their land asset and acknowledge that they have undertaken several significant studies of the site to meet the requirements of this land classification and other legislation.
To my concerns:
The Conclusion in the Statement of Environmental Effects report states that:
"The material in this Statement of Environmental Effects demonstrates that there will be no unacceptable adverse impact on the amenity or environment of the locality as a consequence of the proposed development."
The NSW Legislation's objectives for the C4 zone, and the consultants' Biodiversity Development Assessment Report (BDAR), both raise points that are at odds with the assertion in the conclusion.
Zone C4: Environmental Living.
Two of the objectives of this zone are:
• To ensure that residential development does not have an adverse effect on those values (special ecological, scientific or aesthetic values).
• To protect the size and shape of vegetation remnants if consistent with the protection of assets from bush fire.
From the BDAR:
1. An endangered ecological community, the Bangalay Sand Forest of the Sydney Basin and South East Corner, is present on the eastern margin of the site. It will not be directly impacted by the proposal, but it is unrealistic to expect there would be no indirect impacts due to including trampling, rubbish dumping, the introduction of pests/weeds, exotic plants, edge effects, habitat fragmentation, and changes in surface hydrology, all of which are associated with the construction of dwellings and hard surfaces, and increased likelihood of human activity.
2. Significant fauna were identified on the site including Grey-headed Flying-fox, Gang-gang Cockatoo, Glossy Black-Cockatoo and Yellow-bellied Glider. The (Vulnerable) Yellow-bellied Glider was recorded within the subject land and critical habitat including sap feeding trees, potential den/breeding trees and movement corridors are "likely to be impacted by the proposed development". Conservation Advice for this species lists threats as population reduction and habitat destruction following the 2019–20 bushfires and continuing population decline due to land clearing, fragmentation, extensive severe fires, and climate change. The proposed impacts map shows several hollow bearing trees and a sap tree located on and bordering the road and house blocks.
The proponent asserts that:
" It is considered that the public interest would best be served by approval of the proposed development, given:
• the absence of demonstrable adverse environmental impacts resulting from the proposal; and
•The social and economic benefits of the proposed development as identified in this Statement of Environmental Effects."
That this assertion has been made in the face of the concerns raised in consulting reports, apparently without community consultation outside of the DA submissions process, is concerning.
Having been here for 17 years, I have seen a progressive removal of native bush and important habitat to meet 'housing demands' - yet have recently seen a disused farm purchased for the purpose of creating housing, which seems much more aligned with sustainability and environmental goals.
I hope you will take the submissions for this project seriously, and in consideration of longer term environmental and sustainability objectives.
