Two points of interest that have come out of the exhibition include the attempted increase in floor space, along with the question of building heights, with a planned nine-storey building within an existing four-storey zone raising concern.
This is Mirvac’s latest step in the development, following the December 2015 announcement of the sale. Over the past few months, Mirvac has been proactive in hosting a public information session and meeting with key resident groups.
The meetings involved general discussion of the proposal, with specific concerns being raised about the inability of Redfern station to meet the demands of the estimated 10,000 additional staff.
Alice Anderson, spokesperson for REDWatch – one of the groups targeted by Mirvac – expressed her view that Mirvac were eager to involve the local community in the development process. “I think they are aware that the community that surrounds ATP are some of the people that can best use and generate interest in the site.”
Despite this, she emphasised the importance for the public to remain vigilant.
“It is complex because of the number of changes that will be occurring over the next couple of years and it is very important for the public to continue to watch Mirvac’s agreements with the NSW government, as negotiation and consideration can still be taken into account,” Ms Anderson said.
“It is very important that community members watch the site so Mirvac cannot destroy its integrity.”
Another REDWatch member, Alexandria resident Desley Haas, who has already lived through four years of disruption during the construction of the Channel 7 building, seconded the importance of community engagement. She had particular concerns over the use of the space. In the meeting it was established that certain areas of the ATP would be allocated for community facilities, such as a supermarket, childcare and cafes.
“We don’t need another supermarket,” Ms Haas said. “We should be building up our local businesses, not bringing in more to compete with what the existing ones are already doing.
“It came across that any services they say are being put in there are not for the existing community, but for the extra 10,000 employees they are bringing in.”
A spokesperson for Mirvac has confirmed that they will continue to involve the public in the planning process, stating that a further information session is expected for late February. “Mirvac is committed to making the ATP a thriving place for digital industries and a major employment hub with high quality public spaces that preserve the site’s important heritage values.”
The final date for public submissions is February 29.
