Kingston City Council is continuing its strong advocacy on the proposed redevelopment of the former Kingswood Golf Course, following a detailed response to the developer's planning permit application.
While Council is not the decision maker in this instance, we are writing to the Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) and the Minister for Planning, acknowledging some limited changes have been made in response to earlier feedback, but making it clear that significant concerns remain. It is our view that the application should not be supported in its current form.
Among the limited changes include a reduction in lots from 941 to 932, some road-width changes to assist waste collection to Council's standards and providing further detail regarding on street parking provisions.
Mayor Georgina Oxley said Council's focus remains on getting the best possible outcome for the community.
"We've consistently said this development, in its current form, goes too far, and that hasn't changed. We remain seriously concerned about the loss of trees and native vegetation, unresolved drainage and flooding risks, and the need for better community infrastructure and open space outcomes. These all need to be addressed before this proposal should be supported," Cr Oxley said.
"The state's own Planning Guidelines for Golf Course Conversion highlight the importance of protecting biodiversity and natural vegetation, as does the Vegetation Protection Overlay the Minister placed over this significant site and the expert advisory committee's findings when they considered the planning scheme amendment.
"We're continuing to push for a development that is designed with the protection of the site's natural environment in mind, independently assessed plans to manage flooding, and new infrastructure that actually delivers net community benefit for new and existing residents.
"This is a once-in-a-generation redevelopment of a site with such distinctive natural features, and it's critical it is done right," Cr Oxley said.
Council also emphasised the importance of stronger planning around affordable housing, community infrastructure, transport connections and the overall sustainability and design of the development.
"Our role now is to advocate strongly on behalf of our community to ensure a critical eye is placed over this application. We have carefully assessed the application and will keep working with the state through its assessment to secure better outcomes, because our community expects and deserves nothing less.," Cr Oxley said.
Council Officers will now continue to work with the DTP, external agencies and the permit applicant (as required) but considers the application should not be supported in its current form. Council will continue to provide the community with updates as they become available.
