Hi to all the friends and supporters of BirdLife Top End,
A little while ago we were going to hold our launch for the Community care of migratory shorebirds in the Casuarina Coastal Reserve program but we postponed it because of covid-19. We have now organised to hold this event online using ZOOM and we invite you to attend virtually.
The ZOOM event will be on Tuesday 21st April 2020 from 6-7pm.
We would like to introduce our program to you and then hear your thoughts about the management of shorebirds in the Casuarina Coastal Reserve, how you might like to be involved, or how we can improve habitat for shorebirds. Please feel free to send through your ideas if you cannot join our meeting.
Details about the meeting are attached in the poster and you can join the event by clicking on the link below.
Topic: Community care of migratory shorebirds in the Casuarina Coastal Reserve Time: Apr 21, 2020 06:00 PM Darwin
Or iPhone one-tap : Australia: +61280156011,,767232570# or +61370182005,,767232570# Or Telephone: Dial(for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location): Australia: +61 2 8015 6011 or +61 3 7018 2005 or +61 731 853 730 or +61 861 193 900 or +61 8 7150 1149 Meeting ID: 767 232 570 International numbers available: https://charlesdarwinuni.zoom.us/u/aJtSxRMLQ
In an underhand and secret tree cull workers were spotted felling 120 year old Milkwood trees in Darwin Post Office Car Park at 7am this morning.
One tree was down by dawn.
A small group of concerned residents attended site and managed to gain a halt the felling of tree two. According to ABC Radio police ordered the stay of execution due to pending heritage listing of the second Milkwood tree. The accompanying photo shows the World War two helmet embedded in the tree.
PLan: the Planning Action Network Inc are dismayed at the continued ignorance of our elected politicians to sanction such an attack on NT Heritage. The current Lord Mayor and Chief Minister were voted in on the promise of open government and protection of our heritage and green assets and this is the result.
The claim of an extra 500 hoped for international students for Charles Darwin University as the basis of a $150m loan to a university that is planning to demolish buildings on the current campus does not pass the pub test. This after Barneson Boulevard forever divided the Frog Hollow park heritage precinct.
Below we look at the statements we can find. Italics represent the articles as found.
Lord Mayor of Darwin Kon Vaskalis appears to contradict himself (see paragraphs nine and ten). Also he withdraws from Social Media.
The NT News article of 20 September 2019 is in direct contravention of the outcome. It would be good to know who the Darwin Council spokesman was.
National Trust statement after the trees were felled.
Statement from CDU, I am still trying to track down the original so treat with caution.
PLan offer the following thoughts:
It is clear that the process of spending big money to revitalise the city is failing community. Whether it will actually bring prosperity to us all is perhaps questionable also.
A halt on proceedings is required and true consultation should begin.
Respect for our heritage, our green space, our unique community and environs are mandatory for those who seek to manage our assets.
Consultation by press release and Facebook post does not cut it with Territorians.
Events
12:15 Wednesday 18/12/19
The first one will be at 12.15pm, Wednesday 18th December hosted by Gerry. This will allow people to come down at lunch time to show they cared about the tree as opposed to our civic leaders. There will be a plaque put in place near were the old tree once stood and a new tree planted to replace the old one. The ceremony will be short because of the heat. Please wear something bright as this is a celebration of a grand old tree and the beginning of a new one. Also wear a hat. Ring Gerry Wood for more details 0428698037.
The second gathering will be hosted by Taste of The Top End and Darwin Community Arts. They will have small Milkwood trees for people to take and plant in areas that will not be developed. The ceremony will also be on Wednesday, 18 December 2019 from 17:00-18:30pm.
Lord Mayor of Darwin
This quote from the Lord Mayor of Darwin, see paragraphs 9 and 10 (our emphasis) which appear to be opposing statements (Facebook 15/12/19.) A bit of a bet each way.
I have followed with great disappointment and dismay recent Facebook posts regarding the removal of the Milkwood trees at the proposed new Charles Darwin University (CDU) campus on Cavenagh Street.
It is obvious that some people will resort to misinformation, personal attacks and name calling to suit their narrative ignoring facts and truth.
So let's get the facts right; the real facts and not the fake news:
CDU, the Northern Territory Government and the City of Darwin Council jointly applied and achieved a Darwin City Deal; one of the best in the country.
Under this City Deal, the Federal and NT governments will provide funding to CDU for a new campus in the middle of the city - a project that will revitalise the Darwin CBD. As part of the City Deal, the Council will provide the Cavenagh street car park for the new campus site.
CDU received a Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility (NAIF) loan of $150 million for this new campus. Similarly, as part of this City Deal, the Council has given the right to CDU to do works in the site for the construction of the new campus.
CDU has already completed geo-technical to establish the suitability of the ground and has proceeded with detailed planning of the new campus.
The advice to CDU from engineers and architects was to remove the tree.
“Following consultation with Larrakia Nation, it has been agreed unanimously with CDU, City of Darwin and the Northern Territory Government to remove two milkwood trees to enable the transformation of the car park into a world class education and civic precinct,” a CDU spokesperson said.
SO THE FACT IS THAT the milkwood trees were removed by CDU on the advise of their experts and NOT by the City of Darwin Council.
Following advice by CDU, the City of Darwin Council enquired with the Aboriginal Sacred sites and indigenous groups but no indication of importance was identified.
The City of Darwin Council does not and will not remove trees unless there are good reasons (ie safety of people and structures, power lines, playgrounds etc). On the contrary, the City of Darwin Council has embarked on a rapid reforestation of our city with 7000 trees planted by the end of December this year and many more to come in the next two years. This was somehow missed by the people who put upload postings in Facebook - and this is a fact!
I have spoken to the CDU Vice-Chancellor, and I believe that CDU will provide information regarding the removal of the trees.
As I have stated before, it is sad that people will rely on social media for inaccurate information and not search for the real facts.
I responded personally to people who have contacted me seeking the truth but after this debate has fallen to such a low level, I will not respond any more. It very sad that people will resort to personal attacks and foul language in their posting.
I invite you all to check the facts and not social media postings!
NT NEWS September 20, 2019 7:11am
WILL ZWAR, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., NT News
Subscriber only
A HERITAGE listed milkwood tree will be protected by its strict conditions while the future education and civic precinct is developed
A Darwin council spokesman said Charles Darwin University had found possible culturally significant elements of the milkwood tree, during geotechnical investigations of the Cavenagh St carpark site, where the trees are located.
“During CDU’s site investigations, which are required to inform the development of the site, it was found that there is the existence of some groundwater, soft soil confined to one corner and milkwood trees that may have cultural significance,” she said.
“To confirm the status of the milkwood trees, City of Darwin has undertaken to work with the Larrakia to determine cultural significance and an appropriate approach.”
It comes after independent Member for Nelson Gerry Wood said the milkwood tree, estimated to be more than 100 years old, hadn’t been addressed by CDU in the campus’ design, unlike the nearby boab tree.
But it has not been neglected forgotten about in planning for the site and will be preserved during construction of the new precinct.
“The historical and heritage-listed Boab Tree on the site has been known to the City Deal parties since the announcement of the project and will be protected in accordance with its strict conditions as part of the development,” the spokeswoman said.
“City of Darwin is looking forward to finalising the implementation plan with all parties and delivering on the Darwin City Deal.”
Darwin council, CDU and the NT Government will determine the best approach for the development of the site over the coming weeks.
National Trust Tim Dixon Statement on the Milkwood Trees
The National Trust has received many enquiries about the milkweed trees chopped down by Charles Darwin University on the weekend.
I can confirm the trees were on the National Trust Register of Significant Trees. They were listed in 1986 and recorded as being planted in the 1880s.
The Register has no legal power of protection of the trees - it is simply a recognition of trees which are important and significant to the Northern Territory.
More concerning is that Charles Darwin University removed the trees after they were nominated for heritage protection, as a way of perverting the Northern Territory's heritage protection system.
If other developers see what Charles Darwin University has done and if it is without consequence, then they might be encouraged to also bulldoze or destroy buildings of potential significance before they have the opportunity to be assessed. We regard this as an unacceptable gap in the system of heritage protection.
Therefore, the National Trust will be lobbying the Heritage Council, and through them Minister Lauren Moss, to amend the Heritage Act so that this wilful destruction is not encouraged in the future.
Many people have compared this to the destruction of the Hotel Darwin - in many ways, that’s a fair comparison.
Owners and developers from all around the Northern Territory accept and acknowledge the system of heritage protection and work within it. It is only a very small proportion who actively try to abuse the process, or who rush destroying the Territory’s heritage to evade the system that every other developer goes through. It is very disappointing that Charles Darwin University, funded from our taxes, is in this small proportion of bad faith operators.
In the meantime, we will regretfully go through the process of removing the trees that Charles Darwin University cut down from the Register of Significant Trees.
Tim Dixon, Director
This is the post by Charles Darwin University not seen in the original
We would like to acknowledge community concerns around the removal of two milkwood trees on the site of the Education and Civic precinct in Darwin CBD. While it was not an easy decision for any of the partners involved, it was essential for the project to proceed.
The heritage-listed Boab tree on the site had top priority for preservation and following extensive independent planning and third-party assessments, it became clear two milkwood trees would need to be removed to accommodate the new precinct at the site. Consultations were held with Larrakia Nation, and a formal assessment sought from AAPA and no significance was registered for this site nor for these trees.
Cuttings of the large milkwood tree have been taken and will be grown out so a direct connection to this tree can be maintained. All stakeholders have agreed to a significant replacement planting program in conjunction with Larrakia and other interested parties.
This $300 million (+) project has four key parties involved: the Australian Government, the NT Government, the City of Darwin, and CDU. The project partners agreed that preparation work at the site would begin as soon as Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility (NAIF) funding was secured.
The requirement for tree removal was included in information distributed to media and other interested parties at the NAIF announcement on Wednesday last week.
Land planning favours developers, says residents group
By ERWIN CHLANDA
The proposed removal of “amenity” would turn the Planning Act into a law even more serving developers rather than the whole community, says Margaret Clinch, campaigner over the last 25 years for a bottom-up approach to land planning in the Territory.
Far from being excluded from the objectives section of the proposed Planning Act, amenity – very generally, the things that make for a better place to live – should be front and centre of every planning decision, she says.
This should apply to all planned areas, industrial as well, not just residential: “It’s a matter of dividing up the land you have for the variety of uses needed, layout, transport, the way it’s good for the people who live and work there, from young marrieds to oldies, right through to high-end apartments in the CBD.
“Trouble is, Minister Eva Lawler keeps changing things suddenly, allowing community purposes land to be sold, granting exceptional development permits and refusing heritage listings.”
Ms Clinch says it’s clear the government wants to use planning to crank up the economy by endorsing applications from developers and creating work for builders at the expense of the lifestyle of people in the neighbourhoods.
And while the government provides a one stop shop where developers “get all sorts of help” – and who in any case have access to legal and other advice – no such in-depth shop is available to ordinary folk making applications or trying to find their way through the maze of regulations and processes.
Official consultations by the NT Planning Commission about new Area Plans which will have effect for many years are often presented by hired consultants who fail to take seriously the important objections of local residents.
Demolition of Anzac Highschoool in Alice Springs.
A meeting in Darwin on Wednesday, attended by 60 people, was an exception: Senior planner Del Batten shared the floor with Ms Clinch from the longstanding community group PLan: the Planning Action Network, Inc.
Ms Batten claimed the Act had been enriched with respect to “amenity”: While the word has been taken out the concept is covered elsewhere in the Act, Ms Clinch reports Ms Batten as saying.
The gathering called by the Planning Action Network Inc (PLAN) presented an extensive list of demands, including no more community purpose land sold to developers, and no ministerial override. They see a role for their network extending beyond Darwin.
For instance, they are very aware of the saga surrounding the current demolition of the former Anzac Hill High School, with no firm plans for the site in place, at least as far as the public knows.
Ms Clinch says projects such as small parks, community purpose land, schools, churches, community and youth centres should not fall by the wayside.
She says there are worrying reports that 50% of the next new development land will be in the Darwin CBD, and the rest in green areas right around the CBD.
In Alice Springs, while there is talk of master planning, the examples continue to abound of ad hoc decision-making for the CBD.
This is complicated by poor relationships between the government and the Town Council. One example is the proposed Kwatja water play area, which council favours being located at Snow Kenna Park, very close to the Anzac site currently being cleared by the NT Government.
How will the water play area mesh with what ultimately goes there? If anyone knows, they are not sharing the information with the community.
“The problem is that there is a top-down approach,” says Ms Clinch.
“The Planning Commission doesn’t hear what the public is saying. Profit, not community needs, is the objective.”
PLAN says in a media release that the Act needs to spell out in full what the Development Consent Authority must consider “so people can see its purpose”.
“Inadequate protection for urban and suburban natural environments”: massive drainage works at Kilgarrif are a good example. Humans suffer too (see their houses in the distance).
Ms Clinch says planning 50 years in advance is absurd, seeming to be a strategy of locking up land based on commercial activity centres that may never happen.
Says PLAN: “Basing the massive changes on strategic planning are counter-productive. The projections are too far into the future to be accurate, and do not have community acceptance.
“There is inadequate provision for local parks, community centres for old and young with a growing population; with inadequate protection for urban and suburban natural environments, animals and birds.
“[We] need integration of social infrastructure for health and to avoid crime. Pathways processes for social infrastructure. are long overdue.
“No more community purpose land sold to developers.
“The public is tired of being hectored again and again over the years and its needs ignored. The community must have equal status with developers,” says PLAN.
“Larger lots are needed for families.”
A spokesman for the group says there should be no let off for abandoned stockpiles, such as rubbish on a part of the Darwin foreshore.
A deep hole in preparation for construction that’s been abandoned for six years whereas the Act requires “making good” if construction doesn’t start within two years.
The old abattoir in Smith Street in Alice Springs may be an example of that problem in Alice Springs.
UPDATE November 30
Margaret Clinch sent this note: The department has extended the time for submissions for another week to Friday, December 6.
Interested people can just send an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. saying: “Put amenity back into section 2A of the Planning Act.Design for the climate. All applications must be fully advertised in the press. No exceptional development permits. Preserve heritage.No specials.”
DIPL have advised they will share a stage with PLan: the Planning Action Network Inc. In what may well be a first the Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics will present for half and hour then PLan will present for half an hour. Then the search for common ground begins.
Who will have the most convincing arguments as to the current state of the Planning Act and Scheme? What really needs to be done to provide a better outcome for all Stakeholders?
The topic is the upcoming changes to the Planning Act and Scheme. Members of the public are invited. Attendance is free.
Community Forum
When: Wednesday 27 November 2019
6:00pm to 8:00pm
Where: Reef/Wanaka Room
Level 2, Energy House
18-20 Cavenagh Street, Darwin
Please be aware that someone will be downstairs to let you into the building.
To RSVP please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 8999 6634. Please advise if you will be arriving late as someone will need to let you into the building.
You can find out more about planning reform, download the current consultation documents and make a submission online at haveyoursay.nt.gov.au/planningreform.
Also you can contact PLan: the Planning Action Network Inc.
Expressions of Interest (EOI) are now open for organisations wishing to tender for a proposed Early Contractor Involvement (ECI) contract to collaborate with the project partners and project team to design and develop the Darwin Education and Civic Precinct. This proposed development is a centrepiece initiative of the Darwin City Deal between the City of Darwin, Northern Territory and Australia Government and Charles Darwin University (CDU). The development, on the Cavenagh Street Car Park site, aims to give CDU a presence in the heart of Darwin City. The development objectives are: • An opportunity to showcase an iconic building that is environmentally sustainable ("green") using the latest technology and environmental science • A sustainable partnership, benefitting the university, industry, community and government by providing an opportunity to interact directly at many levels to foster greater interaction and synergy • To create contemporary learning spaces and places that will attract new students from overseas as well as provide an urban campus experience • A vibrant Precinct that contributes to the local economy, and helps revitalise the city centre through new construction, building confidence for new investment as well as bringing new jobs and student/staff activity into the city centre. The ECI contractor must bring extensive experience in design management, cost planning and construction of significant mixed use developments or experience delivering significant individual educational, commercial or public developments. The EOI is the first stage of a multi-stage tender process. The objective of the EOI process is to identify and pre-register organisations that are interested in entering into the proposed contract and have suitable capacity, capability and experience. To keep up to date on our latest projects, follow NT DIPL on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/NT.DIPL/). TENDERS.NET - http://www.tenders.net
WARNING! SAY NO TO TAKING THE COMMUNITY OUT OF THE PLANNING ACT - new closing date
It is intended that the Planning Act will be significantly amended early next year and we only have until 6th December 2019 (was 29th November) this year to make our submissions.
This can be done at https://haveyoursay.nt.gov.au/planningreform or better by email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Before you do though please read on:
You can find out more of this ‘consultation', with documents setting out, in detail, what is proposed, for downloading, and/or reading at the above site.
The stated aim is 'better planning', but much of what is proposed is about reducing the community’s role, even more, in planning decision making for our future.
You may ask: Would the changes mean better planning for the community? What will be lost? Should you know more about the Planning Act, its regulations, and the NT Planning Scheme, before you make your submission? Keeping in mind, importantly even the concept of “amenity” which is in the current Act, does not appear in the Purpose and Objectives of the new Bill.
Amenity is a crucial part of Planning that affects us all. Parking and Road Use, Noise, light pollution, privacy. late night activities, dust, smells, etc.
Where are the Section 2A Clauses referring to Amenity which the Development Consent Authority(DCA) must consider currently? Those things which can affect our lifestyle and the value of your property. How our streetscapes look, and how they support everyday community life and wellbeing.
Notifications are to be withdrawn from the newspaper for certain developments, this may well mean more community members will miss the chance to find out what is happening in their environment.
There is still no equality in planning appeals. Is the DCA independent? Ministers can still override decisions like zoning and some other matters without appeal, with Exceptional Development Permits still be permitted.
The act endorses strategic plans, area plans and policies that don't exist.
NJK
To find out more, and to help make your submission, read below
INTRODUCTION
The Northern Territory Government is asking for our community comments on its proposals for amending the Planning Act, 1999.
We need a balanced Planning Act which satisfies the wellbeing of all Territorians. This is what people asked for at the last election.
Instead it appears that there are to be a series of long term strategic plans which the Minister can control, and must be complied with without end date.
The media tells us there will be 50% population growth in the CBD, and a further 50% in the green areas around.
At present the Planning Act favours developers by promoting tall buildings, and crowded residential estates, with small lots. What is proposed would make it worse.
As if to signal the all importance of strategic planning, ‘AMENITY’ has been OMITTED as CLAUSE (e) at Section 2A (Objects) from the new Planning Act, with STRATEGIC PLANNING inserted three times for the development of the land. THIS WOULD THEN BE ABLE TO OPERATE AS A DEVELOPMENT ACT, NOT A PLANNING ACT.
WHAT DO WE NEED NOW THAT WE HAVE NOT HAD BEFORE:
Instead of this, residents need a new balanced Planning Act catering for good amenity in well planned;
1. Urban, Suburban, Rural and Remote Living for all domestic categories with suitable climate and culture architecture. (Towers are not suitable for families in the tropics)
2. Green trees and grassed parks in proportion to the growing populations.
3. Publicly owned Community social and cultural facilities, close to residential areas, eg youth centres, community centres, churches, schools, etc.
4. The Conservation of natural environments, particularly foreshores, catchments and other common law features.
5. Priority protection of places of heritage significance, whether or not listed.
6. The public should have a One STOP SHOP equivalent to the DEVELOPERS, and there must be pathways for public assignment of land.
MOST IMPORTANT IS ADDING IN YOUR SUBMISSION THAT THE WORD “AMENITY” BE PROMINENTLY IN THE NEW ACT IN THE EQUIVALENT PLACE AS SECTION 2A(OBJECTS) IN THE OLD ONE.
WHAT ELSE CAN BE DONE ?
There may be a few items you can add a comment about, from the list below:
Please use your own words
AMENITY SHOULD FEATURE PROMINENTLY IN THE NEW PLANNING ACT IN SECTION 2A (OBJECTS)
Section 51 which the DCA MUST consider, should be spelled out in full in the draft document, so people can see its purpose.
The massive emphases on strategic planning are counter- productive. The projections are too far into the future to be accurate, and do not have community acceptance.
Strategic plans are based too much on commercial activity centres, which may never happen.
Inadequate provision for local parks, community centres for old and young with a growing population.
Inadequate protection for urban and suburban natural environments, animals and birds.
Respect common law rights on foreshores and in catchments.
Need integration of social infrastructure for health and to avoid crime. Pathways for social infrastructure are needed.
No two level changes for advertising. This could cause more rather than less problems.
The public is tired of being hectored again and again over the years, and its needs ignored.
DAS and DCA procedures must be fair, and consistent.
No variations in development assessment..
The community must have equal status with developers.
Zoning is the basis of better planning.
Tropical areas need tropical architecture
Larger homes are needed for families.
Too much reliance on technology which is not always available.
Official announcements and advertisements MUST be by NT Press, and not just on websites, or other computer devices alone. Mail must be used when essential.
No let off for abandoned stockpiles, holes in the ground, or failures to comply.
Darwin has enough tall buildings - safety and fires ?
No more community purpose land sold to developers.
NO MORE illegal Exceptional Development Permits.
Greater equality in third party appeals.
NTCAT to function as a Tribunal not a court.
Better documented applications for Planning Scheme Amendments.
Proper definition of ‘MAJOR PROJECT' status when Minister’s special power is used
Phasing out of NT Planning Commission when all Local Area Plans established.
Local Area Plans to be INDICATIVE - Ministers could veto all proposed zone amendments as non complying- inflexible over years.
DCA Conflict of Interest needs clarifying.
Just process at DCA Hearings. No DCA recommendations before submitters speak.
SUBMISSIONS NOW CLOSE FRIDAY, 6 DECEMBER, 2019
MAKE SURE IT HAS YOUR NAME AND ADDRESS
Best to ask for acknowledgement.
SEND YOUR SUBMISSION BY EMAIL. USE THE ADDRESS - This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
MAC
For more information.
Regards,
Nick Kirlew
Convener PLan: the Planning Action Network Inc
0447 499 749
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
This week we are launching our 2020 membership drive at Nightcliff Markets.
So to get your PLan: the Planning Action Network 2020 membership call down to Nightcliff Markets this Sunday 27th October 2019.
Memberships run from 1 January 2020 to 31 December 2020 and cost $25. We also have a membership page on the website here https://planinc.org.au/membership.html
PLan collaborates with resident and community groups on matters including the built environment, heritage, cultural and environmental values of concern in the Northern Territory and Australia. PLan’s aim is to achieve, for the community, sustainability in terms of social, cultural, environmental and balanced long term economic impacts.
Is it a home or a hostel or a ?
The NT Government is calling for comments on the current Planning Review. Before you move right along consider this; This proposed house at Claymore Circuit Brinkin was passed un challenged by NT gov https://planinc.org.au/news/current-campaigns/241-claymore.html except that the proponent had needed to put the 32 air conditioners on the third floor.
Now a three story residential home is possible but with eight bedrooms with each bedroom with an en suite and a second sink in the walk in robe it starts to get a bit less home and more like a hostel.
So please have a look and decide for yourself, is it is a home or hostel? Then have a look at the planning reform which will stream line development applications.
If an 8 bedroom, 32 air conditioner, 3 car park building with 1.6 metre boundaries was going in next door to your place and there was no issue under current planning rules would you like a chance to have your say?
The Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics, on behalf of the Northern Territory Government has recently commenced the third round of consultation on Planning Reform.
With feedback and comments we received from the previous consultation and exhibition, we recognise that the reforms are quite technical, complex and interrelated. In order to enhance understanding of the planning reforms, we propose to hold a briefing session followed by working sessions/workshop for targeted interest groups.
We would like to invite you to participate in an information session and workshop. The intention is provide clarification of proposals presented in the documentation released for consultation and provide the opportunity to workshop issues of particular interest to Darwin residents and community groups. A second information / workshop session is to be held in Palmerston to facilitate engagement with Palmerston and rural residents.
The focus of the consultation is to identify and obtain your comment on:
• The changes proposed which will have the greatest benefits;
• Whether the proposed changes reasonably address your issues; and
• Any additional changes to the Act or Planning Scheme considered necessary.
or
Please rsvp one of the above dates This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
As previously advised you can find out more about the current round of consultation, download the consultation documents and make a submission online at https://haveyoursay.nt.gov.au/planningreform.
This newsletter we would like to acknowledge community members who we consider to be “stars”.
These are people who give their time, effort and resources to protect our natural and built environment. These are people who bring common sense to the table and often put to shame those decision makers who are responsible for the continued enjoyment of our communities.
Decision makers who are either paid employees of the Territory or “promising politicians” and I don’t mean promising as ones we might encourage.
Here we seek to give voice to issues your neighbours and your neighbouring communities are experiencing. Each issue is different but to us it seems the underlying themes are similar and recurring.
The transfer of open space from public to controlled ownership
Attacks on our amazing natural environment
The public’s right to the foreshore
A built environment that is responsive and forward thinking while preserving the best of the efforts of those who have gone before
Best practice in creating a liveable and economically valid urban environment.
Here is a walk through some of those items that PLan are aware of:
Rapid Creek
This just hurts to discuss, but at one point in time, back in the past an opportunity existed to continue the good work, but all we have seen is travesty after travesty, rampant growth without adequate planning and now to my mind the crazy flood mitigation. We know who the responsible bodies are and we know that those same bodies have ignored the advice of experts.
The Rapid Creek Landcare Group continue to do fine environmental work in this space.
Hughes Avenue
How many sky walks does the average Territorian need? This is a heritage listed road very popular with people for exercise.
The post office car park Boab as a youngster?
Two Trees
Post Office Car park, given the current issues with Woods Street not being fit for purpose I now push bike Cavenagh Street and cut past two significant trees in the heart of our city. Are both of these trees worthy of preservation?
The City Deal looms like some unseen and (done without a production team) alien invasion movie and we know how the average citizen ends up in those movies.
Is the city deal a loan of a grant?
Kulaluk, Ludmilla and the open sky
We see today clearing in action. Some doubt that what this town needs is to replace wetlands with shopping centres and some doubt the whole process of getting your hands on the wetlands.
From a letter by a concerned resident:
Just quite why beautiful Dick Ward Drive, with its Jabirus, Brolgas and White-bellied Sea Eagles, needs industrial eyesores built in conservation areas can only be answered by the NT Government and the Development Consent Authority. Both of these bodies seem to have a very limited concept about eco-tourism and environmental responsibility.
Dual Occupancy
Even today after all that has gone before we have a process where the minister giveth and the minister taketh. Why have a town plan, a review, a consultation and finally a law if all that comes is the minister giveth and the minister taketh?
Some why does an application in Brinkin get knocked back and an application on East Point get the go ahead?
Is it possible that this decision will become a precedent for Dual Occupancies and Exceptional Development Permits?
And finally here, what will the new buildings look like? Is the minister endorsing the build also?
Reform Agenda
Many of you are practiced at providing submissions which contribute to the decision making process according to the powers that be. Many of you end up scratching your heads, where did those comments go?
Plan call for the results of these consultations before the final plans and schemes are enshrined.
The recent Draft Central Darwin Area Plan is an example, where are the comments on this significant body of work?
The Compact Urban Growth Policy of the dying days of Dave Tollner’s reign of terror is coming to roost.
Lee Point and Casuarina Coastal Reserve
For all the ignorant destruction to date this next round of development at Lee Point is massively worse and compounded with the promotion of tiny blocks as a lifestyle choice, shame on Defence Housing Australia (DHA).
Three thousand people (the population of Tennant Creek) living in homes that mandate a 1 tree garden combined with 8 story apartment buildings alongside a world class ground nesting migratory bird site beggar’s belief. How many cats and dogs will be introduced to Casuarina Coastal Reserve by this act of magnificence? Imagine Carey Street reproduced on Lee Point.
It seems that DHA’s concept of tropical living is solid walls cheek and jowl. Design is based on getting an air conditioner as efficient as possible.
The idea of forcing children out of their backyards and into Casuarina Coastal reserve is repugnant. Try this for a backyard:
There is no room for side access to park a boat or camping trailer, put up a trampoline or a basketball hoop with some room to practice. All are shown as having virtually zero lot frontage on one side and rear boundary and apart from an “indicative’ open space’ of 6m x 6m at rear right with 50% of this area being under roof overhang. This space is required to have 5m2 (2.3m x 2.3m) where a tree can be planted. Defence Housings contribution to managing the tropical environment.
Here is a sample of block size and ratios
450 to 540M2. 146 lots
540 to 600m2. 60 lots
600 to 800 m2. 34 lots
Again we see building going into flood zones.
Going for a drive? Try these numbers:
The plan provided shows 3705 m of roads comprising 495m (13.5%) being 25m width. 635m (17.0%) at 20m width and 2575m (69.5%) at 17m width. This is not road surface width but lot boundary to lot boundary. Allowing walkways and setbacks a minimum of 5m is need to road gutter on each side, leaving 7 m for 70% of the road network. With two cars at 2.0m width parked on either side leaves 3.2m for a bus to drive along. To provide access, residence will need to park on the footpath to allow vehicles top drive safely. Parking tickets anyone?
Each and every road should not be less than 25m lot boundary to lot boundary.
The Black Footed Tree Rat habitat is clear-felled. 100% of trees removed. Perhaps a solid wall between the development and Casuarina Coastal Reserve.
Waterfront Hotel
Dare we say one ugly building that contributes zero to the public space.
Darwin City Council
Did I mention promising politicians earlier? If the city is broken let’s focus on the broken bits not trade away our open space. DCC needs to improve pedestrian and bike path access to schools, shops and the CBD. The DCC is uniquely placed to fight to preserve and improve and contribute more open space to the city and surrounds. They have no mandate as developers.
How many parks has DCC created in recent history? How many public assets have DCC traded away? If DCC now is short of funds perhaps they should have thought about the future before paying millions of dollars to wreck Frog Hollow.
Little Mindil
The countdown is running, the covenants are expiring. What was given away when we were told the public access to the foreshore would be preserved, open space would be preserved, the escarpment would be preserved? Think back to Clare Martin and Paul Henderson reassuring the good citizens of the Territory. Now we see a for sale sign with a block outline that shows no reality to what is happening on the ground.
Bagot Park Milner
In a surprise to residents of Milner, public open space has been slated to become part of a bicycle sports complex. Originating with a set of lights for Bagot Park Oval the term Sporting Precinct has been taken up. Next has come an upgrade to the velodrome which has morphed into a takeover of adjacent open space. Darwin City Council offered up a set of options to comment on, none of which allow for an alternate set of outcomes which may be valid.
Here is an extract from a letter by local residents:
From memory, at no stage during the consultation process was the extended use of the velodrome mentioned. The proposal to extend the velodrome area into a cycling precinct has caused dismay, concern, disappointment and anger that we have not been acknowledged as a group of importance to consider during Stage 2 of the development of Bagot Park.
Concept drawings have been shown at two community meetings on the site. It is clear that no comprehensive master plan exists (although council have said they created a master plan with Triathalon NT in late 2018). Residents are being asked to comment on infrastructure that even the proponents do not understand. For example is the proposed criterion track for racing on?
This proposal highlights the gross inadequacy of public consultation in use in the Territory. The original lighting submission advised that 94% of residents are for the lights. The makeup of the survey was over 50 sports-people and 7 residents. Not a resounding mandate perhaps?
BTW Way go the Mindils!
An extract from a local resident:
I like the park behind not being developed I feel a sense of calm walking through there after a hard day’s work. Am wondering about the opportunity for a doggy park (unfenced), community garden anything that is low impact.
Traffic and parking are a problem and have seen a few accidents over the past ten years. Am happy for the resurfacing of the velodrome to go ahead however the car parking is so full at times that the impact regarding more people driving in with their bikes makes me wonder how they can stage these training sessions.
Certification of High Rise Buildings in the Territory
What is going on here? Should the NTG be selling our Land Tittles Information system? How much would you like to pay to understand the possibly murky history of your home?
Solid walls face the empty streets, not a car parked.
Anzac Oval Alice Springs, art for arts sake?
In a strong and confident defence of a valued asset in Alice Springs Anzac Oval will not be turned into national art gallery. A long process of offering money, land and compulsion has been turned away by Alice Springs, well done!
Flagstaff Park
This park is public open space managed by NTG. It could certainly use some management!
Extract from a letter from a Territorian to the NT Planning Commission:
Flagstaff Park has been classified as public open space by Clare Martin’s government and should remain so. There is widespread community support for this. It is frequently used as a performance space during the Darwin Festival and other events.
The park has been totally neglected in recent years but should not require many resources to bring it back to life.
Remaining trees offer some shade and the spectacular views of Darwin Harbour as well as beautiful sunset viewing.
Possible improvements?
Care, plants and shade structures.
Signage and of course shaded bike and pedestrian paths would bring people to the area to enjoy the views over the Harbour aw would additional plantings of appropriate trees.
Shaded picnic structures in Flagstaff Park as well would encourage people to spend more time there.
Not In My Back Yard!
From the Convener to NT News Letter to the Editor
Recently Matt Cunningham took Territorians to task for nimbyism. Well a counter to that line of thought is that if we don't protect our back yard who will? An example of this is a large hole in the ground bounded by Packard Street, Smith Street and Montoro Court.
This is the old Asti Motel Site. In 2013 a development approval was granted for 82 units, in 2014 it became 90 units, in 2015 it went to 140 units. Now in 2019 it will become 140 units and a restaurant. Recently (mid April, no response as yet) I wrote to the Director of Building Control and relevant politicians bringing their attention to the poor condition of the site.
For many years we have had a 3 story pit with temporary fencing in our street. While I am not an expert in the field I suspect the pub test would agree that it does not look safe. And contributing to the amenity it does not. No response from the Director or the local member to date.
The new Development Application has the potential to just prolong the no build no make good situation for another 2 years. Given there are no cranes in the Darwin skyline the requirement for 140 units may not be there today.
Since that letter was published in the NT News I was sent this gem, something to look forward to!
Joondanna built the Target extension on their shopping centre in Palmerston about 10? years ago. It sat as a huge hole in the ground for about 20 years before they finally built it...
And this from a nearby unit owner:
… It is not clear if these dwellings are also holiday accommodation or destined for rental on the open market. Darwin is saturated with units - as a unit owner I have had to drop my rent more than $200 a week to keep it occupied and it has dropped by a third in value. Please consider looking after the people who have already invested in the city and are struggling before approving ANY unit development proposals in this area.
Summary
So what do I think?
You should carefully consider placing trust in the concept of public consultation as practiced in the Northern Territory by any level of government or business.
Successful challenges to bad planning outcomes requires resources and time that many of us don’t have easy access to.
Many a politician uses the line: “I only hear from people who agree with my crazy, disruptive, grandiose give away of your peaceful enjoyment of an asset that was gifted to the public is an obviously wise decision in the past”
Or
Open bracket (of the 3,000) people who live nearby only 8 area against my blatant miss reading of local sentiment and (of the 50,000) people who live not that far away 48 people are for it. Hey we have a mandate!
A Facebook advertisement is not a consultation, and paid reach is not genuine interest.
Write to your Politican, ring your politician, request a meeting with your politician, PLan will attend with you.
If an agency is involved engage with the agency, BUT ask for access to the results of that consultation, was what you said adequately recorded? Be careful of stacked questions, better to write a letter on your terms, send an email, request a response, publicise what you get back.
Think cross community, the problems you are having are the same problems we are all having, if 20 people make a fuss hmmm if 100 people make a fuss ….
Final Words
How can PLan help you? Over 25 years’ experience in the Planning issues in the community.
PLan membership $25 a year,
PLan committee, fresh blood always required. Can you volunteer time for our projects?
A view of Frog Hollow in the city, never to be repeated.
Stage 3 of consultation on Planning Reform is now open. 7 October – 29 November 2019
The NT Government is now seeking feedback on proposed changes to the Planning Act. The proposed changes are set out in detail in the Consultation Draft of a Bill of Amendments to the Planning Act 1999.
Release of the consultation draft Bill is accompanied by a suite of supporting documents that provide context about how the changes to the Act will work with other changes to the planning system to implement planning reform.
Here is a thought, what does Amenity mean in the following?
Merit Assessable – development that requires the exercise of discretion by the consent authority to ensure it can be established and operated in a way that does not impact on the amenity of the area and accords with the relevant zone purpose and outcomes.
And changes to notifications
Notification streams for development applications Two new streams of notification will be introduced for development applications requiring public notification: Local notification – for minor developments that only have localised impacts. Applications will be simplified and notification will only be required to immediate local residents by letter and a sign on the land. Newspaper advertisement will not be required. (our emphasis) Designated development – for developments that require greater community consultation due to their location or nature. The minimum exhibition period for designated developments will be increased to 28 days. Consultation will occur later in the reform process to determine which developments will be subject to the new notification streams. The Regulations will list the types of development that will be subject to each stream. The existing standard notification requirements, including newspaper advertising, will continue to apply to most development applications.
More to come, the web site advises there will be public consultation sessions we have asked where and when?
Preliminary design plans for a playground precinct at Myilly Point Picture: NT GOVERNMENT
THE NT Government will build a “playground precinct” to replace its planned museum at Myilly Point after scrapping the $50 million project last year.
The government yesterday released a tender to design and build the playground, which will include play equipment, a skating area and an ibisshaped “bin chicken” shade structure.
The new project is listed in the budget papers as coming in at a far more modest $3 million. In calling for expressions of interest, Infrastructure Minister Eva Lawler said the new project would “support more than 15 local jobs”.
“We understand how important Myilly Point is for many Territorians and these works aim to complement and enhance the usability of this key public space — providing an attractive family friendly park for all to enjoy,” she said.
Myilly Point includes the site of notorious Aboriginal internment camp the Kahlin Compound.
Ms Lawler said the project would allow for restoration works that would “acknowledge the history and cultural significance of the site”.
Member for Port Darwin Paul Kirby said the park would be welcomed by his constituents.
“As the local member I’ve been pushing for some time to upgrade and activate Myilly Point and it is exciting that the people of Port Darwin and the northern suburbs will soon be able to use the reserve as a space to enjoy fun, recreational activities,” he said.
“This project will provide the local community with an attractive park to enjoy, while still allowing for any iconic Territory statement on the site when the opportunity presents.”
A tentative design was released with the tender but Ms Lawler said that could change at the successful bidder.
Construction is scheduled to begin in September with the playground to be operation by February next year.
This is to draw your attention to the current Australian Heritage Festival running now from 5 May, 2019 to 19 May, 2019, in case you have not seen the brochure out of the NT News. The new Director of the NT National Trust - Tim Dixon, has put together an excellent program highlighting the heritage places around Greater Darwin, and some even more interesting special events.
This is something different not to miss if you love Darwin.
Treasurer Nicole Manison offered the Alice Springs Town Council up to $5m for Anzac Oval but this is likely to be withdrawn because Chief Minister Michael Gunner has announced “consideration will need to be given to the future” of the National Aboriginal Art Gallery for which the oval was needed.
Ms Manison has not responded to a request yesterday from the Alice Springs News Online for information about her negotiations with the council but we have learned that her letter to the council contained the following:-
“The land has a current compensation value of $3.6m comprising of the land value and disturbance costs.
“Alice Springs Town Council could propose compensation for acquiring Lot 678 (the Anzac Oval) that could be in the form of a land exchange, monetary payment, provision of infrastructure works, or a combination of these options, that would enable the council to deliver further priority projects for the people of Alice Springs.
“Government would be willing to negotiate the above compensation value for the fair purchase of the site up to the total value of $5m,” Ms Manison wrote.
“This would be conditional o the [council] utilising the additional funds over and above the compensation value for projects that would activate the CBD.
“Activation projects may include infrastructure that links to the Anzac precinct such as walkways and lighting, or other agreed projects that would directly benefit the people of Alice Springs …
“In addition to the above government will fund the construction of a new rugby facility.”
Meanwhile Mayor Damien Ryan has not responded to questions from the News about the possible cancellation of the gallery project.
We emailed him early this morning: “The 10 signatories of the letter rejecting the Anzac precinct site have made it clear they are supporting the concept of the gallery in Alice Springs, just not in that location.
Like the lyric from the classic Australian band Mental as Anything the Asti Motel site continues to haunt the residents of Larrakeyah.
Joondanna Investments Pty Limited have applied via Northern Planning Consultants Pty Ltd to develop the Asti Motel Site in Larrakeyah. The public comment period closes 3 May 2019.
Part 2 Section 4.0 Planning and Principles Framework
The interpretation of this Planning Scheme and the determinations of a consent authority must have regard to the planning principles and the relevant framework drawings (as may be the case) contained in this Part and ensure that a use or development or proposed use or development is consistent with them
4.1 (e) promote urban/ building design which is climatically appropriate, water and energy efficient and contributes to the existing and future character and appearance of an area;
4.1 (a) ii the appropriate integration of new residential development taking account of the lifestyle and character of established areas;
4.1 (f) ensuring amenity is enhanced as a result of development
4.2 (e) ... contribute to the amenity enjoyed by residents ...
These buildings degrade the surrounding area by being out of character with existing buildings and open space.
3.0 Definitions “amenity” in relation to a locality or building, means any quality, condition or factor that makes or contributes to making the locality or building harmonious, pleasant or enjoyable;
This application has not addressed amenity.
Redundant waivers
The submission relies on previous waivers. None of those waivers have any currency due to having expired.
Traffic
No current traffic impact assessment has been carried out. The last assessment was done in 2014. Combined with the car parking shortfall the local streets of Packard Place and Montoro Court could have an additional 240 cars traversing them day and night. The affected streets are not wide enough for two cars to park and one car to traverse. Already there is overflow parking on these streets from existing residential properties. A possible solution is to one way traffic in and out of the site.
NOTE: There are many examples of street bottle necking available in Darwin after years of development waivers.
Building height.
Larrakeyah is not Central Business and building height should stay appropriate to the zoning. The application advises that building outside of zone limits are a positive factor. By requesting buildings higher than the original site surrounding properties are to loose significant amenity through the change of building height and density. The limit in the area is 8 storeys which these buildings clearly are not.
Compatible with surrounding use.
The submission uses the proximity to the CBD as rational for the size and density of the use. As noted in the submission Larrakeyah and this site are NOT in the CBD. No waiver should be applied for being near a zone.
Car parking
The submission notes that it will be 22 car parks short. The addition of these cars into the surrounding area is clearly adding to the dangerous amount of cars that use Smith Street and surrounding streets. The current crop of tall apartments have overflow parking issues currently. Allowing a developer to contribute to that problem is an impost on the residents. Again the submission uses the fallacy that if the site was in Central Business the parking rules would be different. It is clear that claiming that the local street network could accommodate more overflow parking shows that no recent study of the area has been carried out. They are relying on the 2013 approvals for this logic. Since than some tall building have gone in close to the site.
Setback
Previously the setback requirement for the building adjacent to Smith Street has been waived three times. Modern design principals frown on the reduction of amenity by building up to the street verge. Darwin now has many sections of street paths with multi story solid walls, no awnings or street planting. Larrakeyah in particular is seeing an increase.
Intent
To date this site has been a construction site for 6 years. During that time some work was done on remediation of the site being that the pit has some fill. Applying for rolling development approvals has seriously degraded the amenity of the location and Smith Street which is a primary link down the spine of the city has had an eye sore for many years.
Open Space
With the future of the Old Hospital site uncertain it would be appropriate for this site to have open park space.
Design Quality
Recently the standards required by NSW apartment guidelines have been accepted into discussion on acceptable development in the Northern Territory https://www.planning.nsw.gov.au/Policy-and-Legislation/Housing/Apartment-Design-Guide This submission falls low on such a measure of quality. In short this submission fails to deliver better quality design for buildings that respond appropriately to the character of the area, landscape setting and surrounding built form.
THE old Asti Motel site in Darwin will be transformed to a two-storey public housing development, aiming to help alleviate the Territory’s significant housing problems.
The $40 million project will be headed by developer Peter La Pira of Joondana Investments — the owners of the Palmerston Shopping Centre.
Housing Minister Gerry McCarthy said “social housing head leasing aims to increase the number of public housing options available to low-income Territorians, seniors and people living with a disability — stock that currently does not exist”.
“Currently, one bedroom and three-bedroom homes are our highest in demand,” he said.
“This build will deliver a number of one-bedroom units to address the wait list and allow for single tenants living in large homes to downsize to their needs — freeing up larger houses for Territory families.”
THE story of the proposed National Aboriginal Art Gallery to be located in Alice Springs is becoming more and more a horror story as time passes.
Of course it is a good idea, if it can be done properly, with adequate funding, an appropriate site, well-informed planning and management, and the happy support of all of the Alice Springs community.
It would be a mistake to build it in the Alice Springs CBD, just as some lobbyists insist that all such specialist public buildings, of tourist interest, should be squeezed regardless into the CBD in Darwin, to bring extra income to commercial interests there. That is poor planning of community assets.
There are several reasons why the National Aboriginal Art Gallery should be sited outside the small Alice Springs CBD. It should have a picturesque natural Central Australian backdrop to set it off, like Mount Gillen. It should reflect its essential Aboriginal character, and not be squeezed within a European context.
It will need space to grow as its activities, collections, and reputation expand world wide. It should be in a place where Aboriginal people, including artists can always feel comfortable.
When we have the funds ($50 million est) to build this gallery, international interest in Aboriginal art will draw visitors flying from all over. They need to be impressed, and will not expect a small set-up. They will not baulk at hire car or taxi rides of a few kilometres if the gallery’s status is right.
Both Alice communities have made it clear that a site at or near Anzac Oval would not be right for them. Also we must not seriously underrate the strong importance of heritage in Alice Springs. It cannot be ignored at the important Anzac site
The people of Alice Springs by this stage may be feeling bullied over this planning issue. Lately, a secret message from the NT Government to Mayor of Alice Springs, suggested that council could perhaps give up its smallish, but prime central town site, to make way for the proposed gallery to go to the Anzac site.
This cannot now be seen as friendly. On the face of it, it might be read as a threat to local government’s independence, and a lack of respect for the ratepayers of Alice Springs.
This is a letter from the Friends of Bagot Park to Darwin City Council. Mobile: 0439 626 730
The Right Worshipful The Lord Mayor of Darwin Kon Vatskalis JP City of Darwin GPO Box 84 DARWIN NT o801
Alderman Robin Knox Alderman Emma Young Alderman Simon Niblock Alderman Rebecca Want de Rowe Alderman George Lambrinidis Alderman Justine Glover Alderman Peter Panquee Alderman Sherry Cullen Alderman Mick Palmer Alderman Jimmy Bouhoris Alderman Andrew Arthur Alderman Gary Haslett
3/8/2019
Dear Lord Mayor and Aldermen
It is with disillusionment and a high level of concern that we have learnt via the NT News and conversations with other residents that the City of Darwin Council has approved a Cycling Precinct for Bagot Park, Millner.
As you are aware during 2018 we consulted with the City of Darwin and Football Federation NT in relation to how the installation of lights and nightly use of the oval by Mindil Aces Football Club would impact on neighborhood residences. You will recall that oval lighting was not the major concern. Most concerning were the headlights shining into our homes, noise of night-time traffic, inadequate and disorganized parking and degradation of the car park and its surrounds.
As representatives of the "Friends of Bagot Park we engaged in consultation with City of Darwin representatives and Football NT. As a result of these consultations the City of Darwin Capital Works team developed a plan (Bagot Park Plan: Stage 1) for the upgrade of the car park, verges, and landscaping to help mitigate traffic and parking issues We were pleased with the entire consultation process and appreciated the acknowledgement of our concerns with a positive response and outcome.
At the Council Meeting on Tuesday 27th November 2018 at which Cynthia Last and others attended first to speak with Aldermen and then to attend the Council meeting, a motion, in two parts, was passed.
1. To proceed with the installation of lights at Bagot Oval 2. And that projects arising from the landscaping and formalization of the car park at Bagot Oval be considered for funding during the 2019- 2020 budget process (Darwin City Council Minutes of Meeting 27 November 2018).
From memory, at no stage during the consultation process was the extended use of the velodrome mentioned. We were assured that funding for the velodrome was for the purpose of resurfacing the cycling track only. In fact Mayor Kon Vatskalis, when we met with you, you advised us that discussions had occurred to incorporate "wandering pathways" through the trees and parkland next to the velodrome. This sounded wonderful.
The news that a "Cycling Precinct" with a bike skills area, pump track and criterium track planned for the parkland next to the velodrome has come as a shock to local residents living nearby and has caused dismay, disappointment and anger. At no point were Friends of Bagot Park acknowledged as a group of importance to consider in the planning for Bagot Park.
According to the media release from the City of Darwin (07 December 2018) "Cycling NT thanks the City of Darwin and Triathalon NT for the collaborative process undertaken to develop the cycling precinct "master plan" Where were the Residents of Millner? Surely a "master plan" would need extensive consultation with the people and community on whom it would impact the most?
We make the following points:
1. What has been a peaceful green park for Millner community members to undertake a variety of sporting, fitness and recreational activities, a young people's soccer venue and a cycling sporting facility is planned to become a "Sporting Precinct." It is questionable whether a sporting precinct, housing two large sporting bodies, is acceptable in a residential area. Bagot Park will no longer be a Park but a Sporting Precinct.
2. We believe that initial consultation process (City of Darwin Engage Darwin- Community Engagement Report: Bagot Oval Lights) was unfair and biased. The report shows that 94% of respondents said they would like to see Bagot oval extended beyond its current use. The actual break up was 21 Millner residents and 94 residents from other suburbs ( Karama, Coconut Grove, Wulagi Larrakeyah, Ludmilla, Bayview, Jingili, Nightcliff, Rapid Creek, Anula, Leanyer, Fannie Bay Parap and Nakara.)
It is apparent that the majority of respondents were football participants and not residents from Millner community. It is not these people who will be impacted by night-time use of the park and the ensuing traffic, headlights and associated noise of general sporting and social activities.
3. We have been advised that there will be a community consultation after the plans have been developed. It is a given that cycling participants will be in agreeance with the proposed plans for a bike skills area, pump track and criterium track.
Residents of Millner must be consulted. We need you to listen to our views. The development of Bagot Park must be informed by our views.
We have placed a submission with the Development Consent Authority, requesting that approval for the lighting of Bagot Oval be deferred pending full community consultation to address future development and infrastructure in its entirety, at Bagot Park.
We anticipate, at this consultation, attendees would include Millner residents and other interested persons and users of park facilities, representatives from Cycling NT,Triathlon NT, Football Federation NT and Darwin City Council. This community consultation would provide the opportunity for all involved persons to clarify, discuss, plan and agree on the entire proposed current and future development of Bagot Park, culminating in the development of a Master Plan. It would allow Millner residents the opportunity to have a say in the development and amenity of their suburb.
We cannot let this communication go to you without mentioning that as residents we feel we have been deliberately ignored and kept in the dark. We feel railroaded and it must be said bullied by larger organizations. We have grave concerns about the amenity of Bagot Park and the Master plan for its future which has been thought up by persons who do not live in the vicinity.
We need your help and consideration of the impact of planned development on residents who live adjacent the park and surrounding area.
We have documented and attached our main concerns on a separate page. In conclusion we request a consultation that includes • Concept plans made available at a location for a period of 10 working days whereby interested residents and persons can view, make comments, and put together questions
• Full meeting with residents, stakeholders, City of Darwin representatives, Aldermen for Chan Ward, Cycling NT, Triathlon NT, and Football Federation NT, Mr Ken Vowles MLA,Member for Johnston and the Honorable Lauren Moss MLA, Minister for Tourism, Sport and Culture
This will provide a proper opportunity to fully explore proposed development of the velodrome area and oval and to ensure that all interested Millner community members are fully informed of the current and future scope and plans for their Bagot Park.
Please read the attached details of our major concerns at the end of this letter.
Yours faithfully
Friends of Bagot Park
MAJOR CONCERNS
1. Significant increase in traffic
• With additional sporting facilities, increased number of users and consequent increase of local traffic on Old McMillans Road and adjoining roads, traffic will increase.
• Both the Velodrome and Bagot Park soccer fields will be used at night, potentially increasing the number of vehicles in excess of 500 vehicles each and every night, Monday through Sunday, with each vehicle shining their headlights into residential homes.
o Current parking facilities are insufficient to accommodate this number of vehicles o Increased street parking will cause access and exit difficulties for local residents o Residential roads are narrow, restricting the easy flow of traffic. With street parking two cars are unable to pass o Traffic risk factors will increase at the corner of Chin Street and Old McMillans Road
2. Increased infrastructure
The City of Darwin Sports Field Plan 2016-2026 classified Bagot Oval as a District Oval that enables development of infrastructure at Bagot Park that may include:
• fencing • construction of club rooms, storage facilities, shelters and kiosks • signage and advertising billboards • spectator seating and grandstands
Such infrastructure impacts negatively on the peaceful and visual amenity of the park surrounds
3. Significant reduction in park space
There will be a significant reduction in park space and time available for local community recreational use such as exercising your dog, for walking, jogging, bike riding, other personal fitness activities and for families with their children using playground facilities.
4. Bagot Park will no longer be an effective buffer zone
Initially planned to be a buffer zone to protect the local community from McMillans Road traffic noise, proposed development at Bagot Park actually brings additional traffic and other associated sporting noise into the community.
5. Reduction of green space
Vacant parkland adjacent the velodrome is not reticulated. In the dry season the grass is dead and the grounds are dry and brown. Cycling facilities such as a pump track, bike skills area/criterium track will add to the dry and dusty desecration of what could be aesthetically-pleasing green parkland.
Due to anticipated increased traffic flow on Old McMillans Road, further degradation of parklands will occur with vehicles making their own tracks e.g. from the corner of Chin Street and Old McMillans Road through to Sabine Road, around the velodrome and on kerbs.
6. Devaluation of properties along Old McMillans Road
Should Bagot Park become a Sporting Precinct with unresolved traffic and parking issues and unattractive outlook caused through degradation and unsuitable sporting facilities for a suburban park, residential properties in this area, particularly those along Old McMillans Road will devalue.
From today's NT News this sentence is confusing: “The Government has learned you do need to take your time; you do need to take people with you and that you’re very clear with what you want to see,” she said.
Perhaps it could be better said "You need to ask the people what they think is appropriate"?
HAYLEY SORENSEN
DARWIN’S eyesore Chan Building is on borrowed time, with demolition expected soon.
The Government will undertake a six-month “masterplan” to redevelop Civic and State squares, after which the Chan Building will be knocked down.
Infrastructure Minister Eva Lawler was yesterday unable to give a time frame for its destruction, given the complexities of shifting the government IT servers housed beneath it to a new location.
The masterplan, to be carried out by Taylor Cullity Lethlean with input from local firm Troppo Architects, Hully Liveris Design Com Pty Ltd, and Irwin Consult Engineering, will look at locations for a planned art gallery in State Square.
Ms Lawler said the Government had learned from the failure of its Myilly Point museum project and from the difficulties around the planned Alice Springs indigenous art gallery.
“The Government has learned you do need to take your time; you do need to take people with you and that you’re very clear with what you want to see,” she said.
Ms Lawler said the gallery would provide an opportunity to display works currently in storage at MAGNT.
The CBD redevelopment is part of the 10-year $200 million Darwin City Deal.
This is a sad story of the residents of Darwin being ignored by what was once an organisation that was able to engage with community.
Now riding roughshod over the contentious issues of:
mass tree clearing in environmentally sensitive areas
high density housing with cheek and jowl buildings
limited public open space, children playing on streets
endangered wildlife exposed to domestic animals and
Tropical architechture
Defence Housing Australia (DHA) have ignored calls for consultation, only relenting when PLan officers contacted the masters down south. Then the meeting was superficial and it was made clear this is a done deal.
Good afternoon,
The Darwin DCA previously deferred the application to subdivide 283 lots in 5 stages at Lot 9370, Town of Nightcliff. The applicant has now submitted further information including an amended master plan and advice from the EPA to address the matters of deferral. A copy of the deferral and the further information is attached.
You are welcome to review the further information provided and can provide further comments. Please provide any further comments via email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. by Thursday 14th February (next week) so that they can be included in the report to the DCA. Alternatively you can submit further written/verbal comments to the DCA at the hearing if this is preferred. If you would like to discuss the deferral or further information provided, please contact Adelle Godfrey on 8999 6359 (Wed –Fri).
ITEM 1: SUBDIVISION TO CREATE 283 LOTS IN FIVE STAGES
PA2018/0436: LOT 9370 (544) LEE POINT ROAD, TOWN OF NIGHTCLIFF
The DCA will be seeking your response to the issues and recommendations in the report and you should be prepared to answer questions raised by the members.
Please see attached your invitation to the Darwin DCA Meeting.
Please consider what you have learnt from previous government efforts in the city. As usual it is just common sense that is required …
This is closing today, so please get your skates on.
Regards
Nick Kirlew
Convener
Dear Friends,
Here we are again, on the last day another 'NTG Have Your Say Consultation’. It is due to go in to the NT Planning Commission.
My aim here has been toastier quickly as possible provide what I see as an overview of the CDAP proposal, and suggest some possible comments and questions you might possibly choose from if you are submitting today, or over the weekend.
Email any submissions to: ’This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..au’. Hope this helps !
1. INTRODUCTION
This one is called the Central Darwin Area Plan Stage 2, and it is very important as a proposed framework for the future planning of Central Darwin, or the CBD, and the area around it.
The information, and earlier versions are to be found on the internet at : 'NT Planning Commission’ in the section headed 'Central Darwin Area Plan’.
In this we are being asked to look and comment upon the DRAFT CENTRAL AREA PLAN (22.1mb)-62 pages, and as background the DRAFT NEEDS ASSESSMENT.
2. AREA PLANS
As you probably know the NT Planning Commission has, for there last few years been busy preparing AREA PLANS as future models for various areas of the NT.
What it has not told you is that these are indicative and not binding. However, developers and sometimes the DCA seem to count them as gospel, and this has caused a lot of headaches for the community.
This is because their central core is based on commercial activity centres and how to render them viable with adjacent denser residential clusters. This is the essential pattern.
3.‘COMPACT' PLANNING THROUGH THE NT PLANNING SCHEME (NTPS)
Another important factor in tis CDAP is that it is dominated by the COMPACT POLICY of development imposed upon us by David Tollner as Planning Minister in the dying days of the CLP Government.
This is a southern cities policy crowding populations close to activity centres, theoretically to avoid the urban sprawl issues that cause worrisome problem. In the southern capitals, but not here in our open tropical frontier.
Obviously this is commercially beneficial for developers, but … is it the right thing here ?
4.THE CDAP DOCUMENTS
These documents are well set out, with introductions and maps, explaining various planning themes as they apply to the central area covered, and then addressing what are identified as parts of the centre area overdue for change, as FOCUS points.
This is quite informative, with issues such as heat addressed. The Draft Central Area plan document consists of 62 pages, including FOCUS POINTS.
The idea is that comments coming in at this round will be considered in the draft, and then the new document will be recommended to the Minister to be endorsed through the NT Planning Commission processes. This of course will have serious implications for the future of Darwin.
5. COMMENTS AND RESERVATIONS
The problem about simply supporting this Draft Central Darwin Area Plan is that it reads like a fairy story, and that everything will come out well for us.
The history of the last twenty five years shows that we cannot expect it to come out rosy in terms of planning for the community, because it has never has in the past.
That is why we need to make some relevant points and questions now as strongly as possible. These are but a few of the concerned.
6.COMMENTS AND QUESTIONS THAT COULD BE USEFULLY ASKED AT THIS STAGE
A FEW SAMPLES FOR YOUR OWN SUBMISSIONS.
6.1 What future year is the CDAP based upon for its fruition?
6.2The commentary offered by the CDAP is too reassuring when compared with what has happened in the past.
6.3Where is there a wholesome support for heritage? Historically this is not true. How would the planners achieve this counter to NTG policy in the CBD?
6.4 Aboriginal sympathies are indicated theoretically, but not in the case of One Mile Dam
6.5Why did the planning team not meet with the residents of One Mile Dam.
6.6Where are the extra parks to support the accelerated population growth envisaged by this CDAP. Car parks with trees are not walkable parks.
6.7Why has green space been lost in the building of Barneson Boulevard? What benefit is there?
6.8When and how will the devastation caused by the construction of Barneson Boulevard be eradicated.
6.9There are inconsistencies between various parts of the document, eg. The broad descriptions of the PO site as generally educational and civic when elsewhere
A Council Chamber indicated without its name being exposed.
6.10The artist's impressions all over Central Darwin illustrations cause great concern
Nick
6.11Pediments and greening buildings does nothing to improve urban design at a street level.
6.12 There is no substitute for a living environment. What barriers will be established for no more loss of living environment?
6.13There are too many options listed for the land uses of many of the FOCUS sites, like the Tank Farm eg. Sport and residential. Options are too open.
6.14Specific use development zones should be avoided.
6.15Mixed use zoning has been overused
6.16 One CDAP for the whole are is not sufficient. There are areas of different character
6.17Use of foreshores by the public must be protected.
6.18Flag Staff Park at the end of Myilly Point is zoned for the public. In the media it was promised to the public by Chief Minister Clare Martin when she was elected.
6.19There should be no housing on the Old Hospital site. The public has waited a generation.
6.20The existing Area Plan at the Waterfront should be honoured that so that there is a public park on the foreshore in front of the Luxury Hotel, not just access.
6.21Heritage listed Hughes Avenue and Goyder Park should not be overlooked by an unnecessary Sky Walk.
6.22 Little Mindil should come back to the people as an open space. It was never intended for development.
6.23The public must be consulted before any significant new developments are progressed.
6.24There should be no building in front of the Darwin Escarpment at the Waterfront because it spoils the image of Darwin as cruise ships arrive.
6.25 CBD buildings should have setbacks at street level.
6.26 Buildings in Smith Street should be made to honour setbacks consistent with Marrakai.
6.27As the public was not involved in the City Deal arrangements, it is not implicit that these proposed developments have their approval.
6.28Work should be initiated to improve the entrance to Darwin along the Stuart Highway.
6.29The Botanic Gardens should be expended, and THE Gardens conflicts resolved.
6.30 The NT Planning Scheme COMPACT POLICY should be suspended in view of the current population changes.
6.31 Affordable Housing should be initiated in the core CBD
6.32Work should begin on consolidating small lots in the Core CBD with absentee landlords.
NEW Zealand-based casino and entertainment operator SkyCity has put its 5.6ha .
The site, which is expected to fetch at least $12 million, has been the home of the popular Darwin Turf Club Cup Ball for close to a decade and is one of Darwin’s most prized development sites.
The 51,300 sqm site has about 200m of beach frontage looking back to Fannie Bay and sits below the Myilly Point escarpment.
The Clare Martin government sold Little Mindil, which is next to the casino, to SkyCity for $6.6 million in 2006.
The sale allowed the development of its $50 million lagoon beachside resort on the lawns previously used for the Darwin Cup ball and enabled SkyCity to retain Little Mindil as an unfenced special events entertainment park.
Last November it sold its casino resort to US-based Delaware North for $188 million.
Before the NT Government sold Little Mindil to SkyCity a number of uses had been floated, including a $35 million eco resort; a sports stadium; and an indigenous cultural centre.
Talk of a low-rise tourism resort at Little Mindil Beach was welcomed by the NT Chamber of Commerce, which said it would be a boost for tourism and was the type of development Darwin had needed for many years. Planning Action Network opposed the sale.
While SkyCity did not undertake any development on the Little Mindil site, it is a multi-zone site with the majority zoned Tourist Commercial.
Colliers International is the sole selling agent and declined to comment about the sale.
Its advertising describes the site as exceptional – “situated between the Casino Resort and Myilly Point while also having direct proximity to Cullen Bay, Larrakeyah, The Gardens and Darwin CBD”.
“Improvements currently include a fully landscaped and serviced car park (230 bays), pedestrian access paths and open lawn beachfront entertainment area,” it says.
“With outstanding tourism and lifestyle amenity on the doorstep of the site the property has exceptional views with ocean to the West and tropical parklands and Gardens Park golf course to the South and East. Little Mindil is well positioned for a variety of development outcomes including hotel, resort, tourism, lifestyle and commercial applications.”
Little Mindil is for sale via an expressions of interest campaign that closes on March 15.
NORTHERN TERRITORY OF AUSTRALIA Planning Act NOTICE OF DECISION I, EVA DINA LAWLER, the Minister for Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics, in pursuance of section 40(6) of the Planning Act, give notice that- (a) I have, in pursuance of section 40(2)(d), refused to grant an Exceptional Development Permit for Lot 8857 (7) Brinkin Terrace, Town of Nightcliff; (b) the application proposed the addition of a second dwelling and subdivision to ~reate two lots less than 760m2; (c) the land is within Zone SO (Single Dwelling Residential) of the Northern Territory Planning Scheme, and the development of the site for multiple dwellings and subdivision within this zone to lots less then 760m2 in area would otherwise be prohibited; and (d) copies of the Reasons for the Decision are available from the Offices of the Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics, Level 1, Energy House, 18-20 Cavenagh Street, Darwin. Minister for Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics -r I { /2019 NORTHERN TERRITORY OF AUSTRALIA Planning Act- section 41 REASONS FOR DECISION IN RELATION TO APPLICATION FOR EXCEPTIONAL DEVELOPMENT PERMIT The decision to refuse to grant an Exceptional Development Permit (EDP) for Lot 8857 (7) Brinkin Terrace, Town of Nightcliff for the purpose of the addition of a second dwelling and subdivision to create two lots less than 760m2 in Zone SD (Single Dwelling Residential) was made pursuant to section 40(2)(d) of the Planning Actfor the following reasons: 1. The proposal has received large opposition from local residents and other members of the public. 2. The proposed lot sizes are a significant departure from the Northern Territory Planning Scheme requirements. 3. The area is characterised by relatively large lots, many of which contain mature vegetation and dwellings with generous setbacks to boundaries, and the smaller lot sizes created by the proposal may create an adverse impact on the streetscape and existing residential character of the area. 4. Future development on the subdivided lots would be inconsistent with the existing built form and character of the area. 5. The subject site is not identified as an area for change in the Darwin Regional Land Use Plan 2015. EVA DINA LAWLER Minister for Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics 7 I I /2019
Protect NT Incorporated invite you to join us for a ban fracking rally at Parliament House at 12 noon on Sunday, February 10th.
Protect NT is an independent community group that was incorporated last September by Territorians determined to protect our land, water, climate and lifestyle. We consider onshore shale oil and gas fracking to be one of the greatest risks the NT currently faces and are determined to see it permanently banned.
The Northern Territory Legislative Assembly will be having their first sittings on February 12th. The last rally to ban fracking was almost a year ago, so it’s past time to remind our MLA’s that Territorians still want fracking banned in the NT. This rally will be the first of many actions planned by Protect NT Inc for 2019.
We would be grateful if you could please let your members, supporters and networks know about the rally. We need a strong start the year if we are to ban fracking before drilling resumes in mid-2019.
I wish raise the following objections to Lee Point Master-Planned Urban Development 2CRU(West) & Muirhead North (East),being DefenceHousing Australiaproposed development.
DHA publicise the following ethos towards development on their web site.
low energy consumption
low water consumption
effective waste management
human wellbeing
biodiversity of local flora and fauna
These developments are clearly in contravention of points 1, 4 and 5
Low energy consumption
Building homes in the tropics that may require 7 day x 24 hour air-conditioning 6 - 9 months of the year is in direct contravention of sound tropical energy efficient architecture practice.
By introducing over 700 homes that have almost no green space on property and by limited open space throughout the development the heat holding capacity of the entire development is greatly increased.
Further DHA advise they build to solar orientation and design to ventilate and cool the home. This statement is clearly un true in the case of this development.
Human wellbeing
High density housing in parts of the Lyons development evidence children playing on streets due to lack of open space, there is significantly more high density in this proposal. The use of streets as recreation space as identified in the current proposal is unacceptable on a common sense basis.
Bio diversity of local flora and fauna
Clear felling of 145ha of forest can not in any way be interpreted as supporting the bio diversity of local flora and fauna.
Constructing only an open boundary between many thousands of people with their associated pets and an area of world renown for ground nesting birds (Casuarina Coastal Reserve) is irresponsible in the least. A solid fence is required to prevent some domestic animals and humans from walking straight into the reserve.
DHA state they landscape to compliment native flora and fauna. The recent EPA assessment by NTG shows no acknowledgement of the failure of DHA to meet this standard. Identified threats have no practical substantial ‘on the ground’ mitigation offered.
Further DHA identify in their annual reports the need for good stakeholder management and public relations. Clearly the stakeholder group the community of Darwin have been omitted from any meaning full consultation.
In a recent meeting in Darwin between DHA staff and PLan, DHA indicated they may consider a public meeting before the end of the year. This is unacceptable as a commitment. The concept that this development is a “done deal” is repugnant to members of Darwin community.
The use of the term affordable housing’ to describe this development does not reflect any understanding of the cost of building new homes in the Northern Territory.
Regards Nick Kirlew
Convener
PLan: the Planning Action Network Inc.
Please email your comments on this development to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
1. Over the years the DHA has been developing Lee Point, successively working northwards, first with Lyons, and then with Muirhead. It is now in the process of developing the last available northern parts, on either side of Lee Point Road.
2.DHA is an agency of the Commonwealth Department of Defence, and its brief is to build housing for defence families who are stationed in various bases around Australia.
3. It is a major developer on the Darwin scene, but uses its own guidelines. These are not always seen as suitable for sustainable tropical living.
For instance, DHA is responsible for the demolition of hundreds of naturally breeze cooled louvred elevated houses on the RAAF land at Winnellie.
4. The current NT Planning Notices at 'https://www.ntlis.nt.gov.au/planning/lta.dar.list’, or Search 'Development applications on line’, includes a copy of the current DHA application (yellow shading ) for new development at Muirhead North ( blank at Lot 9730), above the already developed part of Muirhead.
It is reproduced here, and below the long established Morandini Caravan and Camping Resort. This copy here is not an active copy. The total application does not need to be studied in all aspects.
5. What we think may concern many Darwin residents is the number, and proposed size of the lots. This is why we are drawing it to your attention urgently.
Map of proposed Muirhead North development covering 51.17 hectares in total. The colours are for differentiation but are not formal zones.
The sizes are as follows:
5.1 Lots 4000 square metres (sm's), and larger (biting insects at Leanyer Swamp)) = 32 lots, or 12% of total lots.
5.2Lots 600 -700sm = 62 lots, or 24% of total lots.
5.3Lots 540 - 599sm = 56 lots, or 22% of total lots.
5.4 Lots 450 - 539sm = 110 lots, or 42% of total lots.
This means that 64% of these residential lots would be less than 599sm, with the most available homes being just 450-539sm.
6.We are extremely concerned about the suitability of these small lots for living in the tropics. There are examples of similar homes now being built on the RAAF base where you can see them crowded together, with almost no back gardens at all. Simply speaking, they are just not suitable for tropical suburbs.
As the long term future of Darwin and its families is involved we should not be limited to DHA’s first thoughts for layout in the ‘exploitation' of these rare pieces of remaining good suburban land.
They are very close together. The ‘building envelopes' provide very little space between the actual houses, and between the houses and their fences, so that there is virtually no space for trees for natural shade. No room on the lot for a boat, and very little for a barbecue with family or neighbours. Where will the children play ? Not in the street either. Street trees lining roads do not shade homes.
We are told by DHA staff that these houses must have air-conditioning to every room, making for dependence on artificial cooling, and a big added pull on Darwin's electrical generation. These are ‘solid houses’. We cannot asses ‘orientation, but the overall layout appears to limit it severely. With dependence on public transport, the roads look narrow. What about garbage trucks and deliveries.
During Prince Harry’s recent visit, we have heard a lot about PSTD, amongst defence personnel. Small house lots cannot provide separation and space when individuals, spouses, and children families need it for their mental health. Also there is nowhere for a wife to keep a guard dog, or house a big boat. There are no front fences, so that the front gardens can be enjoyed for relaxation.
7.HOW TO MAKE A SUBMISSION
Submissions become part of the public record, and are be considered by the Development Consent Authority (DCA). Anyone in the public can attend a DCA Hearing. But submitters have a right to speak.
There are several ways of making a submission in your own words, including your points, and name and address, and make a copy of it to keep.
7.1 An easy way is to go into the live online NT Planning Notices (www.ntlis.nt.gov.au/planning') above, and send it by clicking ‘Make Submission’ at the bottom the relevant online map.
7.2 Another is to compose a submission to The Director, Development Assessment Services, and send it by email to:
‘This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.’ OR. ‘This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.'
7.3If you are submitting a hard copy, it must be posted in time to:
The Director,
Development Assessment Services,
Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics,
GPO Box 1680,
Darwin, NT 0801
7.4 OR Hand deliver by 4pm on 9 November, 2018 to the counter at the First Floor, Energy House, 18-20 Cavenagh Street, Darwin.
8.VERY IMPORTANT ADDITIONAL NOTE
It is important that many people now make submissions, however short, on this application for the subdivision of lots at Muirhead North, as outlined above.
This is especially important because, when the parallel DHA subdivision application for the over 500 lots, on 132 hectares, on the sea side of Lee Point Road, was public exhibited last year, from 1 December to 15 December, 2017, that it is at Darwin’s holiday time, only one submission was received.
We need your help to demonstrate that people are committed to consultation, and that their views need to be heard and taken seriously.,
It is PLan’s view that the application for the first subdivision (2CRU) must be re-exhibited to allow a proper consultation processes. The public is currently unaware of major issues there.
DHA has kept the development quiet.
The 2CRU site has additional considerations to be addressed in relation to the land clearing, the impact on Casuarina Coastal Coastal Reserve, the proposed 2X12 storey buildings in a tourist precinct, and the need, or otherwise for a neighbourhood development. This is a beautiful piece of land which demands respect if it is to be cleared.
Perhaps you will agree that the ‘forgotten application' should be re-exhibited in the first half of 2019. Many cannot see the current Darwin urgency for the development of 700 new lots at Lee Point, and that it may be better to have an attitude to wait and see.
Our valued volunteers man the office Thursday afternoon between 1pm and 5.30pm. We are located at 8/1 Buffalo Court, Darwin.
Contact
Post: GPO Box 2513, Darwin, NT, 0801
Phone: 08 8927 1999
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Hi to all the friends and supporters of BirdLife Top End,
Saturday 14th December 2019
By ERWIN CHLANDA
The NT Government is calling for comments on the current Planning Review. Before you move right along consider this; This proposed house at Claymore Circuit Brinkin was passed un challenged by NT gov 
For all the ignorant destruction to date this next round of development at Lee Point is massively worse and compounded with the promotion of tiny blocks as a lifestyle choice, shame on Defence Housing Australia (DHA).
From the Convener to NT News Letter to the Editor
Like the lyric from the classic Australian band Mental as Anything the Asti Motel site continues to haunt the residents of Larrakeyah.
THE old Asti Motel site in Darwin will be transformed to a two-storey public housing development, aiming to help alleviate the Territory’s significant housing problems.
.
