Street tree concern to go to Planning Panel
The Local Planning Panel will be consider an application for a dual occupancy development and two-lot strata subdivision at 42 Hobart Ave, Umina, at its meeting on Thursday, May 15.
Council planning staff have recommended the application for approval, subject to conditions.
This application was referred to the Local Planning Panel after 22 submissions were received during the notification period.
A key concern raised in the submissions relates to the proposed removal of a street tree, identified as T1, located on the council verge.
Residents expressed objections arguing the removal was unnecessary.
The council's assessment acknowledges the community's concern regarding the angophora floribunda (rough barked apple tree).
The arborist report, included in the assessment, indicates that the development has been designed to consider the location of trees on the site.
However, the report also states that tree T1 will require removal.
The Arborist notes that this tree has a medium retention value and can be removed if adversely affecting the build.
The council's assessment highlights that there is no vegetation to be removed from the development site itself, with the tree in question being on the council verge.
The removal of the tree would be subject to a condition of consent requiring replacement at a 2:1 ratio, meaning two new trees be planted.
The council report also notes that the existing verge area already has remnant vegetation, and additional trees are proposed for planting in the private open space of each new dwelling.
The council assessment concludes that the proposed development is satisfactory, consistent with planning objectives, and that the site is suitable for the development subject to conditions.
SOURCE:
DA/1627/2023, 15 May 2025
Local Planning Panel, Central Coast Council