Traffic
Streets adjoining this site are already used as short cuts by motorists avoiding congested intersections on Days, Raymont, and Webster Roads. These narrow residential streets are not designed to carry current car volumes. There are numerous sharp tight bends in the road and poor visibility leading to concerns for safety. The current intersection of Gawler Street and Progress Parade is irregular and often used in an unsafe and illegal manner. The footpaths are narrow and dangerous for pedestrians. The suggestion that the former aged care use and the proposed multiple dwelling use are comparable in terms of car volumes is flawed.
Child Care Centre
The site is opposite a Child Care Centre. It has an already congested and dangerous pickup and drop off area. Child Care Centre parents have already petitioned Council to remedy the situation (petition CA12 / 383944, 21 August 2012). The developer's proposal only increases the risk of tragedy.
Parking
Existing bus stops, and required clearways to intersections prevent adequate street parking. Existing child care drop offs and child care staff parking already spill to on-street spaces on Progress Parade, Billington Street, and Gawler Street. The proposal makes inadequate provision for car parking on site, and will contribute additional on-street car parking.
Height & Amenity
The existing structure is non-compliant with the regulations for low density residential-A areas. It's 800 metres from amenities (shops & transport) and does not meet Council requirements for high density development.
Services
The sewer pipes leading from Southerden Lodge have previously overflowed affecting the property and residents of Gawler Street directly across the road. Should the proposal succeed, when fully tenanted, the risk of repeat sewerage overflows is greatly increased.
Material Change of Use
The proposal is a material change in use from an aged care hospice to a commercial multi-dwelling complex. It contravenes Council regulations on height and density for a low density residential-A site.