Property owners are generally allowed to make minor alterations to their buildings and property without council approval, such as installing fences or a garden shed. However, if any changes have the potential to impact the surrounding environment, including neighbouring properties, permission from the local council may be required. A Development Application (DA) covers these types of development, which can range from simple works, such as a rear extension or pool, to more complex developments such as an apartment development or a row of townhouses.

iObject is grateful that another slice of local Sydney heritage has been saved from the threat of being knocked-down. iObject’s work to prevent the demolition of a contributory within a Rose Bay Heritage Conservation Area (HCA) involved preparing a detailed planning submission to Woollahra Municipal Council. DA523/2022 at No. 26 Salisbury Road proposed to demolish an existing Californian Bungalow and construct a new three-storey residential flat building (RFB) with basement parking.

Neighbourhood character is possibly one of the most disregarded planning principles, often left as a footnote in contemporary development assessment. This remarkable case study highlights some of the threats to neighbourhood character, and the apparent indifference by both the Council (which recommended approval) and the Local Planning Panel (which granted approval) for their own DCP character controls.