NPRAG
The fight to save Parramatta's historic Willow Grove will be heard in the Land and Environment Court following the filing of a summons this week for judicial review of the approval for the Powerhouse Parramatta development.
An injunction is also being sought to halt any works taking place on the heritage listed 140-year-old Victorian Italianate Villa, Willow Grove.
"We are seeking a review of the approval of the Powerhouse Parramatta on the basis of inadequacy of the EIS" said Ms Suzette Meade, spokesperson of North Parramatta Residents' Action Group, which is bringing the action.
The SEARS clearly stated that Infrastructure NSW must identify the alternative sites in Parramatta for the proposed Powerhouse development. However, the EIS failed to identify alternative sites considered by the government nor did there seem to be any consideration into the adaptive reuse of the heritage into the development, which was also required.
NPRAG has briefed Senior Counsel Tim Hale. Tim Hale is the nephew of the late Ken Hale who brought the proceedings about divestment of Parramatta Park lands for the Parramatta Stadium in the 1980s.
Ms Meade emphasized that the North Parramatta Residents Action group fully supports a great Museum for Parramatta but not at the cost of erasing even more of our fast-disappearing heritage.
"We have been left with no option other than to commence this action", she said.
"The Powerhouse development can be redesigned but Willow Grove's heritage significance is inseparable from its location", Ms Meade said.
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