Concerned locals at Avalon Beach stand united against a controversial proposal that seeks to transform two cherished family homes on Kevin Avenue into a senior living complex, sparking fears of lost character, increased congestion, and the erosion of the area’s natural beauty.
The project (DA2024/0044), which is estimated to cost $8.6 million, aims to establish a 10-unit senior living facility at 25-27 Kevin Avenue. This development plan has caught the attention of Avalon Beach residents and stirred significant community opposition, highlighting concerns over the potential loss of the suburb’s unique “character and beauty.”
Over 100 submissions from locals have been flooding the Northern Beaches Council, most of which express strong opposition to the development. The public notification period ran from 13 to 27 February 2024.
Critics have expressed their resistance to the development for several reasons. These include fears of increased traffic on already busy roads, loss of green spaces and tree canopies, and concerns over the adequacy of public transport options for seniors. The opposition is rooted in the belief that the development would significantly depart from the area’s current aesthetic and scale.
“I wish to object to this development taking place in Kevin Avenue. It is a difficult road to navigate at the best of times,” Brenda Haig said in her submission to Council. “Quite often it is highly congested with parked cars and traffic as it’s the only safe thoroughfare with lights to Barrenjoey road. The building of these units will be totally inappropriate by impacting the green corridor, water run off and privacy. The scale and density is an over development for this street.”
“The proposed development in Kevin Avenue, Avalon Beach will be a quick money-making venture for the developer,” says Jennifer Hall. “The proposal exceeds height limits & is high density in a low density residential area. The traffic is already like a dodgem race as the limited parking on both sides of Kevin Avenue restricts traffic visibility. The morning & afternoon is a traffic jam as people use the only lights allowing a safe right hand turn into BarrenjoeyRd! This is a disastrous proposal for Avalon!!”
“It’s too much and not needed here it will not alleviate the lack affordable housing in the in the area it will only compound it, the only people who will benefit are the developers,” wrote Les Manning, another resident.
In response to the proposed development, locals have launched a social media campaign, spreading an “urgent appeal — protect our community” message across various platforms. The campaign reflects a broader apprehension regarding the “relentless pursuit of profit by developers” and the precedent such a project could set for future developments in Avalon Beach.
“Your support in objecting to this proposal will defend the very essence of Avalon and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come,” the campaign stated.
The owners of the properties have not made any comments regarding the community’s response as the DA is still under assessment.
Published 27-March-2024