Thursday, 1 August 2024

North-Eastern Metropolitan Region

Richard WELCH (North-Eastern Metropolitan) (12:50): (997) My question is for the Minister for the Suburban Rail Loop. Residents in Burwood are particularly concerned about the proposed property developments, which will destroy the character of their community and affect their open space. Twenty-storey towers are set to be built in suburban streets and directly next to Gardiners Creek despite clear feedback from the community that they would prefer these to be built along Burwood Highway and away from our precious open space. Furthermore, these towers will cast long shadows across Gardiners Creek and open space, destroying their amenity. We saw in Box Hill community consultation telling us that there would be 20-storey buildings. We were then told that there would be 40-storey buildings, and we are now told that there will be 50-storey buildings. Will the minister commit to the community of Burwood to ensure that these towers will not increase in height and further commit that he will not allow these to overlook open space?