Court approves Ramsgate plans

The Land and Environment Court has approved a development at 105 Ramsgate Avenue North Bondi, overruling the Waverley Council refusal of the application.

The development includes the demolition of the existing building, excavation of the sandstone bedrock beneath and construction of part three-storey, part six-storey, residential flats made up of three units, four car spaces and two swimming pools.

Commissioner Brown of the LEC approved the development with deferred commencement conditions and a reduction of one-third of excavation.

Waverley Mayor Sally Betts said the two biggest issues for residents, excavation and the construction management plan, had been addressed by the court, and said the reduction in excavation was “a good outcome”.

“The main concern for neighbours was the adverse affect on their own building through excavation,” Cr Betts said. “We will make sure they comply with all the conditions and that there is as little impact on the neighbours as possible. Council will be watching closely.”

Long-term Ben Buckler resident Eva Prochazka said she was incensed by the court’s decision. “The LEC have certainly earned their title of being ‘the developer’s court’,” she said.

“The destruction and mining of Ben Buckler Headland is not in the best interests of the local community nor is the gentrification of the area.

“The encroaching overdevelopment and destruction of our national icon must be stopped and Bondi’s unique identity preserved at all costs before it is raped and ruined.”