Residents in Pallara are raising concerns over a proposed development at Ritchie Road, which aims to reconfigure a 41,910-square-metre site into 60 residential lots.
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The proposal for 226 Ritchie Road includes 57 residential lots ranging from 250 to 450 sqm and three lifestyle lots, sparking both support and opposition from locals.
The primary concerns expressed by residents revolve around inadequate infrastructure, potential privacy breaches, and traffic congestion.
One resident voiced their strong objection in a submission to the council, highlighting the area’s infrastructure limitations:
“I oppose this proposal due to the significant infrastructure limitations in the area. There are no footpaths, the roads are narrow and in poor condition. Introducing a large subdivision with additional housing, without any upgrades to infrastructure or public transport, will only exacerbate traffic on the single entry and exit road into Pallara, leading to negative impacts on the current residents.”
One resident expressed concern that if the development proceeds and if two-storey homes are built there, it could negatively impact their mental health, citing that their social anxiety and panic disorder might be triggered by balconies or windows overlooking their property.
While some residents oppose the project outright, a few support the proposal but argue for necessary infrastructure upgrades to address the challenges posed by increased population density.
“I don’t entirely oppose, but we have a big concern about how Hideaway Street will cope with the extra traffic caused by this new development being connected to our estate,” said one resident.
“Unless traffic lights or a roundabout are installed at the intersection of Ritchie Road and Hideaway Street (near the entrance of Hideaway Estate) & Van Dieren Road, it will create a chaotic situation for us existing households.”
Suggestions from concerned locals include widening roads, adding street parking, and enhancing traffic management systems to ease congestion.
Public submissions for feedback on the proposal closed on December 19, but the project remains under review by city officials. Whether the concerns raised by residents will be addressed in the final decision remains to be seen.
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For now, Pallara residents await the council’s response, hoping their voices will influence the future of their community.
Published 24-December-2024
