After a lengthy debate Goulburn Mulwaree councillors opted to defer the determination of a controversial Goulburn development.
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The Development Application (DA) for six attached townhouses at 10 Ben Bullen Place in Goulburn was deferred pending discussions about DCP setback requirements, traffic movements, visitor parking, streetscape and softening the architectural impact on the neighbourhood.
The DA was lodged with council on March 31, 2021 for six townhouses with three bedrooms, combined living and dining, alfresco areas and north facing private open space. The roof design features a simple skillion roof sloping to the south to allow the dwelling to have full solar access to the north. In addition, the proposal involves landscaping, stormwater works and internal driveway works.
The land was previously owned by the council and was used as a water reservoir before it was decommissioned.
Nine community submissions were received during the public exhibition period with multiple issues raised including: Solar access, setbacks, privacy, water runoff, parking, public access, water pressure, traffic and dust.
Council staff recommended approval of the development subject to 73 conditions.
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Deputy mayor Peter Walker moved the motion to defer the decision. He argued parking was an issue with each unit allocated only two car parks.
"They are three bedroom units, it only takes mum and dad with one youth to have three cars," Cr Walker said.
Councillor Sam Rowland seconded the motion. He raised concerns that the architecture was not fitting with the existing post war architecture of the area.
"As it is currently drafted I do not intend to vote in favour of the development, although I do support the possibility of negotiating," he said.
Two councillors voted against the motion.
Councillor Leah Ferrara argued for approval of the DA.
"I think we can make the decision here tonight, we are going back to the applicant with [questions] that seem to be already answered," she said.
Councillor Andrew Banfield argued he would rather discuss a whole new proposal.
"I don't like the design of it full stop," he said.
"I will be voting against it because a deferral gives the indication that we are happy with the development with some minor altercations, and I'm not happy with it at all."
The motion passed five to two. Councillors Margaret O'Neil and Alfie Walker declared interest in the matter and did not partake in debate or vote.
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