On Saturday 25th February local residents met to discuss the Drug and Alcohol Rehabilitation facility proposed for 74 Glen Road Ourimbah. A development application (DA/135/2017) has been lodged with the Wyong council to build a privately run fourteen (14) bed residential facility, housing drug and alcohol addicts from throughout Australia. The Ourimbah community are united in their fight to mainta
in the lifestyle and character of their community. What you need to know…. Dwelling Size: The proposed dwelling is incompatible with the neighbourhood and property. The three storey facility is proposed to be built on land no bigger than your standard residential block, with the smallest street frontage of the street. It will impose on immediate neighbours, removing any privacy, and negatively affect the amenity of the entire neighbourhood. Things to consider
Should a commercial size facility be allowed in a residential area? If the venture is unsuccessful, what would then become of such a large (14 bedroom) dwelling? Should a commercial facility be allowed when it is not in character with the area and encroaches on local resident’s privacy? Occupants: The facility is proposed to accommodate 14 residents with drug or alcohol addiction for a period of six to twelve weeks. This equates to potentially 121 individuals per year. The participants in the program are undergoing difficult times in their lives and will not always behave or think in a rational way. They will be free to roam the community at will.��Things to consider
As a privately run facility with a financial interest in ensuring full occupancy, who screens/regulates the suitability of the residents for the facility? What qualifications do the owners have in managing such a facility? Who will ensure the facility and residents are managed in an appropriate manner? Traffic and Parking: The facility will accommodate a minimum of 19 people at any one time. In addition there will be three catering deliveries each day, plus laundry service and visitors. Things to consider
The increased traffic will add additional noise and ‘movements’ throughout the neighbourhood
Where will the additional vehicles park? The increased traffic will increase wear and tear on a road that is not designed for high traffic volumes. Security: The residents are not confined to the facility in any way, and are in fact encouraged to “engage in outdoor activities, including nature walks, bush walks, and gardening”. There will be no on site security – all security services will be provided remotely. At certain times of the day, there will be one employee responsible for the security and management of all 14 individuals. Residents can choose to leave the facility at any time, without restraint or permission. Things to consider
What security has been provided to the local residents? If the sole employee is occupied managing a violent resident, who is supervising the remaining 13 residents? If the sole employee is injured or restrained by a violent resident, how are security going to be notified? This could happen to you – under current planning laws, these facilities can be built ANYWHERE. How can you help? Have your say – it will make a difference
By completing the attached submission form, clearly stating the reasons for your rejection of the proposed dwelling, you provide important feedback to the local council. Please ensure you include the development application number (DA/135/2017) and indicate any political donations otherwise your submission will be deemed invalid. Keep up to date with the community action plan by joining the local page:
https://www.facebook.com/no2glenrdrehab/
