UPDATE: A fierce backlash is erupting against plans to expand the Woolwich Marina on Sydney Harbour, with local residents rallying to stop what they describe as a potential “parking station for oversized boats.” The proposed expansion, which aims to increase the marina’s capacity from 45 to 79 berths for luxury vessels up to 25 metres long, is drawing significant opposition from the lower north shore, where concerns are mounting about the impact on public access and heritage views.
At the center of the controversy is Beverley Bennett, a spokesperson for Save Our Shores, who reported that over 700 residents have signed a petition against the redevelopment. Bennett asserts that the plan would create “a wall of boats” that would effectively alienate the harbour from the community. She emphasizes, “We want to preserve this area for the Sydney community and beyond.”
Local authorities, including the Hunters Hill Council, have previously rejected similar proposals, citing fears over the safety of sailors and the potential privatization of public waterways. In a surprising move, the council has launched a fundraising campaign to cover its rising legal costs, which have reached $378,000 this month as they prepare for a legal battle in the NSW Land and Environment Court against the marina’s developers.
The latest proposal has prompted 570 submissions to the council, the majority of which are negative. Documents filed by the council argue that the expansion would have “unacceptable impacts on the character, amenity, and use of the area by the public,” and would lead to the “effective alienation” of a large portion of Sydney Harbour for private benefit.
As the situation unfolds, the Sydney North Planning Panel and the local council remain determined to fight against the marina’s expansion. The developers, represented by Micheal Fountain Architects, are pushing forward with an amended plan that would shift the marina westward and eliminate 10 existing swing moorings, while maintaining a ban on large function or “party boats.”
The community is bracing for the next steps as the court date looms. Residents and local leaders are uniting in their commitment to protect Kellys Bush and Cockatoo Island, both of which are heritage-listed sites that could be adversely affected by the redevelopment.
With community sentiment strongly against the plan, eyes are now on the legal proceedings. The outcome could set a precedent for future developments along the iconic Sydney Harbour, making this an urgent and pivotal moment for local residents and environmental advocates alike. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
