MP joins the campaign against inappropriate housing development

Northcote MP Jonathan Coleman has thrown his considerable support behind a campaign opposing the planned development of an apartment block in one of the North Shore’s most historic heritage suburbs.

North Shore City Council has received an application to build a three-storey/20-unit residential apartment block on the corner of Hinemoa Street and Maritime Terrace in unique and historic Birkenhead Point. The proposed block also includes two offices and would dominate the surrounding landscape in its height and proximity to the road frontage.

However, the application has raised the ire of a large number of Birkenhead residents – among them, the Northcote MP.

“I am not in favour of the proposed development,” said Mr Coleman.

“From what I have seen of the proposed development, it does not fit that criteria (of a heritage zoning), and is likely to place a strain on local infrastructure.

“As your MP and a local resident, I am very concerned that any building on the site in question is in keeping with the heritage character of Birkenhead Point.”

Mr Coleman said he would encourage residents to use the submission process to make their views known, as reasoned argument and weight of submission would be key to the final outcome.

Submissions against the offensive apartment block development must be lodged with North Shore City Council by August 31. Submission forms can be obtained from North Shore City Council administrator Joan Bartley, telephone 486 8600.

A recent public meeting of concerned Birkenhead homeowners attracted more than 150 concerned local residents – all opposed to the proposed concrete obscenity drafted for the area. Many of those at the meeting cited that the highly-visible property is surrounded by residential heritage and native bush protection zones.

Birkenhead Residents Association spokesman Warwick Jones said that while the organisation was not opposed to appropriate redevelopment of this site – formerly a service station - the overall design of the current application was totally out of keeping with the heritage nature of the immediate area.

“A number of local residents at the meeting were appalled by this proposal and stated that they consider a development of this scale and style is inconsistent with the character of Birkenhead Point. They believe that it is completely out of character with surrounding residential buildings,” says Warwick Jones.

“Birkenhead Point residents - supported by the Birkenhead Residents Association - believe development of this site should not dominate the surrounding area, and that it should be consistent with Birkenhead Point's character.”

The North Shore City District Plan states that any new building on the site should be assessed against the extent to which buildings and development are appropriate to the character and quality of their surrounds.

“The plan also makes it clear that the development should be considered on the extent to which the development will impact on the visual amenity, and values of properties within the zone, and in adjoining zones,” said Warwick Jones.

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