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Marina Expansion Blocked: Sydney Harbour Views at Stake
6 Sep
Summary
- Planners rejected a $2 million marina expansion citing blocked water views.
- The owner will challenge the council's decision in court.
- Over 400 submissions showed strong community opposition to the plans.
Woollahra Council's planning panel has refused a $2 million proposal to expand Rose Bay Marina, citing concerns over blocked water views and the privatization of Sydney Harbour. The rejected plan included adding 32 berths for vessels up to 20 meters long, which planners deemed an "overdevelopment" that would negatively impact the area's scenic character.
The marina owner, Ned O'Neil, expressed disappointment and confirmed an appeal would be lodged with the Land and Environment Court. This decision continues a nearly 20-year struggle for expansion, with previous proposals rejected in 2009 and 2013 for similar reasons.
The proposal sought to replace 55 existing swing moorings with fixed berths, with a 3.5-meter height limit on vessels to preserve views. It generated over 400 public submissions, with a significant majority opposing the development due to impaired views and potential environmental impacts.
Council officials emphasized the importance of protecting Sydney Harbour as a public asset. The marina argued the expansion was necessary to accommodate rising powerboat ownership and aligned with NSW Government policy identifying Rose Bay for boating facility growth.
