Two-storey childcare centre proposed for Lagoon St
A two-storey childcare centre for 24 children aged up to five years with four staff has been proposed for 10 Lagoon St, Ettalong.
It would operate from 7am to 6pm.
The application prepared by Perception Planning Pty Ltd states: "The proposal includes the construction of a 24-place centre based childcare facility, an eight-space car park and associated landscaping works. "
It states: "A Pre-DA meeting was held with Council on Thursday, August 9, 2022.
"The Pre DA-Advice received, and the key issues identified are contained as Appendix 7."
However, Appendix 7 is not included in exhibited documents.
The site is zoned R1(General Residential) and is 695 square metres in area.
The ground floor will include a carpark, and undercover and outdoor play areas at the rear.
"A total of eight car parking spaces will be provided at ground floor level.
"This includes one accessible space.
"Four of these parks will be for staff and four for temporary standing space for drop off and pickup."
The first floor will contain meeting and office areas, bathrooms, a kitchen, activity and play rooms.
An arborist's report states that "There are three large shrubs, and two small trees present on site.
"One species present (frangipani) is listed as having potential for toxicity in play areas for small children.
"All trees present have low or moderate retention value.
"The impact of the proposed development is the removal of all trees and shrubs for installation of play equipment and shade sails.
"Consideration for retention of one tree is given but not recommended as this single tree is likely to be damaged extensively by children or provide a potential falls risk when climbed.
"No replacement tree species are identified in the landscape designs.
"The site has poor potential for any replacement tree plantings, and none are recommended."
The proposal is non-compliant with planning provisions for site width, parking and signage.
The main variations requested to the various controls are -
The site is less than the minimum width of 18 metres, being only 15.24 metres wide.
A minimum of five temporary standing spaces must be provided but only four are proposed.
The planning provisions stipulate only one sign of no more than 2.5 square metres, but the application calls for two signs both greater than this size.
The application concludes: "The development is within the public interest, from a social, economic and environmental perspective.
"The proposed development will enable the continued residential use of the site with minimal environmental impacts.
"The proposed development is permissible on the site with consent and will provide essential childcare services in the area.
"The proposed development is not considered to have a significant impact on the existing character or amenity of the area and will minimise any environmental impacts on the land."
A number of submissions have already been lodged objecting to the proposal, mostly arguing that the development is too big for this quiet narrow street.
The application is open for public submissions until November 3.
SOURCE:
DA Tracker, 27 Oct 2023
DA/1890/2023, Central Coast Council