Council Matters

Background to Church Point Parking Issue

Source: Courtesy of Scotland Island Community Website

Church Point is a vital part of life for the communities of Scotland Island and the Western Foreshores. Its ambiance, amenity and facilities are of major practical and social significance to offshore residents. It is also a space shared with many other users, both visitors and local residents.

‘The Point’, as it is known by locals, is an active transport and social hub: ferries carry offshore residents to and from their homes, the Commuter Wharf provides mooring for the many commuter ‘tinnies’, locals and visitors gather for coffee and meals at the Waterfront Cafe, and residents pick up their mail and buy supplies.

Parking at Church Point has been a challenging issue for many years, and its environmental, social and economic aspects have been much debated. In 2009, the former Pittwater Council adopted a Plan of Management for the precinct, and in December 2013 voted to extend out the road and pedestrian walkway along McCarrs Creek Road, opposite the commuter boat wharf, and to build a 120-space carpark under the cliffside with other works to improve the amenities at the site.

In this section you can read a short history of the site, review the timeline of events, and access important documents relating to the site.

Relevant documents

Church Point Plan Of Management 2009 (18 MB)

Church Point Survey 2013 Results (250 KB)

SIRA documents related to Church Point Parking. (various)

 

A brief history of the Church Point Parking issue
Author Bill Gye

Introduction

Church Point is the gateway for the 560 households that make up the offshore communities of Scotland Island and the Western Foreshores. Many of us pass through or spend some time at Church Point on a regular basis. Mooring a boat, parking a car (or trying to), catching a ferry, eating, drinking talking, mingling, picking up mail, or occasionally late at night waiting for collection by the water taxi, family or neighbour.

The offshore residential areas have grown and developed with little planning for infrastructure. A long term local problem has been the shortage of parking spaces, making it difficult for people to access their homes. In the latter part of the 20th century this was primarily only at peak times, but since then the problem has now become a daily one for those attempting to get home from work or study. Almost every night local parking is exhausted and a search for backstreet parking is required.

From the 1960s to 2008

In the early 1960s, the area known as the ‘carpark area’ at Church Point was ‘infilled’ for the purpose of car parking. In 1971, this area was reserved for Public Recreation purposes. In July 1995, this changed to Public Recreation and Urban Services (Parking). During the 1970s & 1980s, several community consultation processes, reports and design plans were undertaken in relation to Church Point. None were implemented.

Prior to 1988, there was parallel parking along the waterside of McCarrs Creek Road from the Waterfront Store to Cargo Wharf. In 1988, Warringah Council demolished the old stone wall, which remains as rubble strewn along the water’s edge , and constructed a narrower, boulder wall closer to the edge of the road, resulting in the loss of approximately 25 public car parking spaces.

In 1993, significant works were carried out in the carpark area. This rationalised the internal carpark layout and increased landscaping, creating carpark facilities for approximately 300 vehicles. These facilities are considerably less than the previous arrangements where up to 360 vehicles could be accommodated, albeit on a more ‘chaotic’ and informal basis.

In 1995, Pittwater Council prepared a Draft Management Plan for the main reserve. In 1997, further ‘maintenance’ work along McCarrs Creek Road, behind Holmeport Marina and further up the hill, resulted in the loss of approximately a further 15 parking spaces

Between 1997 and 2001, another series of minor works were undertaken in the carpark reserve, such as the introduction of pay and display, the addition of several disabled parking spaces, the inclusion of speed humps and the rationalisation of the space adjacent to the Pasadena. Though necessary, these changes also slightly reduced the available parking.

From 1997 to 2007, the Management Plan underwent a series of revisions and many further options were explored, including an underground carpark in the reserve.

Adoption of the Church Point Plan of Management

In 2009, a new and more comprehensive Church Point Plan of Management (POM) was adopted by the former Pittwater Council. This plan included a new vision for the centre of Church Point; a redesign of the existing overcrowded Commuter Wharf; the creation of an additional 60 parking spaces opposite the Commuter Wharf, with an option for an additional deck level (total 120 additional spaces); and the broadening of the green walkway in front of the main carpark reserve. The building of the additional infrastructure was supported in two large surveys of offshore residents and in discussions at several community meetings.

Implementing the Church Point Plan of Management

In 2012, the new Commuter Wharf was built and, in December 2013, the decision to proceed with the deck option was adopted by Council. In 2014 the local offshore and onshore resident associations met and agreed upon a common position on four demand management/parking arrangement strategies. This common position was communicated to Council in a joint letterhead communication. In 2014 GTA consulting were engaged by Council to provide a report on “Demand Management” strategies for Church Point. In October 2014 the application to the NSW Government’s Local Infrastructure Renewal Scheme (LIRS) for a loan subsidy was approved. This provides a 3% subsidy for any 10-year loan that Council takes out for this project.

In December 2015 Council received a detailed report on Church Point including the outcomes of the review of environmental factors, the report by GTA Consulting and also a number of recommendations from Council staff about changes to parking rules in the Church Point foreshore and surrounding streets (Eastview, Quarter Sessions and Baroona). The decision to proceed to tender was made and it is expected that the project will commence before the end of the financial year. Following concerns raised by Offshore Community Associations regarding some of the recommendations about changes to parking rules in the Church Point area, at the December 2015 Council meeting Councillors passed a motions requesting a further review and report on the future parking arrangements. This review should include considerations of possible exclusivity for Church Point Parking Permit holders in some areas at some times and considerations of exemption for this group from time limited parking in much of this area.

 

Timeline of Church Point parking developments

1920: Pasadena area infilled
1962: Main carpark area infilled
1971: Main carpark area gazetted for public recreation
1979: Bayview Church Point Foreshore Management Plan (proposed more infilling, not implemented)
1983: Open Space Reports (with several plans and options for parking)
1984: Commuter boat wharf reconstructed
1987: Cameron McNamara Report
1988: Demolition of old stone wall opposite commuter wharf (loss of 25 spaces)
1989: Church Point Revitalisation Plan (not implemented)
1993: Significant carpark makeover (loss of up to 60 spaces)
1994: CaLM Land reassessment of crown lands at Church Point
1996: Re-gazettal of main carpark for the purposes of public recreation AND parking
1994 – 1999: Several versions of a Management Plan for Church Point
1997: Council LEP Rezoning
1997: Maintenance work behind Holmeport Marina (loss of 15 spaces)
1998: Foreshore walkway constructed
1995 – 2005: Several above- and below-ground carpark designs investigated
2002: Master Plan Version 1 – Underground Option
2005: Threat to lose carpark
2006: Master Plan Version 2 – Parking along road site opposite commuter wharf
2007: GHD Review and Plan
2009: Church Point Plan of Management (CPPOM)
2011: First offshore survey
2012: New commuter boat wharf built
2013: Second offshore survey
2013: Council decision to construct the deck option
2014: Ongoing discussions about demand management and report by GTA Traffic Consulting
2014: LIRS (Local Infrastructure Renewal Scheme) loan subsidy from NSW Government approved
2015: Council decision to proceed to tender with the deck option
2015: Council request a further review of the parking arrangements in Church Point and surrounding streets
2016: Constructions to commence before July and the project take approx. 14 months
2018: New car park opened

Historical Updates

  • Update 1 – Construction Start

    Dear West Pittwater Community Association (WPCA)

    We are pleased to advise that Ward Civil and Environmental Engineering has been awarded the tender for construction of the road, seawall and car park at Church Point.

    Geotechnical ground investigation works will take place during the week of 2 May 2016, ahead of construction commencing. A barge is required for these works and will be located by the commuter wharf for approximately 7 days. The works will be staged to minimise disruption as much as possible.

    We are writing to all boat permit holders and will deliver flyers and display signage at Church Point prior to works commencing. We would also appreciate your assistance in sharing this and future updates through your channels.

    What this means for residents

    Unfortunately residents will not be able to tie up boats in the inner section of the commuter wharf during the week commencing 2 May while the investigation works are taking place.

    Geotechnical investigations will generate some noise however works will be kept within regulatory levels and will be conducted within the permitted hours of 7am to 5pm. We apologise for any inconvenience during this time.

    Alternative temporary tie up locations

    To minimise inconvenience, we have arranged temporary tie up locations whilst this work takes place (please see attached pic):

    Old wharf (wharf in front of waterfront café)

    Boat ramp/seawall/beach at the eastern end of Church Point car park

    Staging of works

    • Sunday 1 May, 6pm–Tuesday 3 May, 6pm:
      No tie ups permitted on the inner-west section of commuter wharf
    • Tuesday 3 May, 6pm–Friday 6 May, 6pm:
      No tie ups permitted on the inner east side of the commuter wharf

    Rangers will use discretion for boats with current permits during this period.

    Please understand that Council may remove boats and tie them up to the seawall at Rosstrevor Reserve or double stack them at open areas of the facility if necessary.

    If you have any questions please contact our Wharf Ranger John Hoeben on 0481 012 659.

    More information can be found on Council’s major projects page.

    We thank you for your patience during this time and appreciate your assistance in sharing news and updates on this project.

    Regards

    Andy Davies
    Manager Urban Infrastructure

  • Update 2 – Submissions Close April 10

    This is a reminder that the closing date for submissions responding to Council’s proposals for Demand and Parking management at Church Point is this Sunday, April 10.

    Some residents have asked for a clear explanation of the issue. For this we have prepared:

    Major Issues

    The following sets out the major issues and what we are asking for:

    Issue Response
    There is no formal recognition of the fact that Offshore residents need to have access to a parking space so they can get to and from their homes
    • A resident parking scheme to be introduced
    • That the exemptions in and around CP are for Offshore residents only. That CPPP are only sold to Offshore residents
    50% of the existing carpark is designated ‘only for CPPP’ between 6pm and 6am
    • We ask for 100% of all available carparks be overnight exclusive to CPPP
    • We have the right to resident parking and we are a major financial contributor to the CP infrastructure
    Only 50% (i.e. 27) of the available 54 spaces in the new carpark are designated ‘only for CPPP’ between 6pm and 6am
    • The 50% should apply to the whole carpark, including the spaces designated for private lease i.e. 100% of all 54 available spaces
    • We have the right to resident parking and we are a major financial contributor to the CP infrastructure
    The existing proposal does not make explicit reference to CPPP exemption during 4P 6am-6pm for all of the 54 spaces in the new carpark that are not designated privately leased, disabled or 5 min
    • This needs to be made explicit as it has been confirmed many times by Council that this would be the case
    • It would not make sense to have conditions in the new carpark that were less than those already existing in the current main carpark
    The Church Point streets are proposed to become 4P and a significant number of spaces reduced for safety reasons, a loss of more than 100 spaces that Offshore residents currently use for “overflow” parking
    • The number of spaces lost due to safety to be kept to a minimum
    • The 4P restriction should be exempt for CPPP holders
    • Once the foreshore is full our cars have to go somewhere. If not local streets, then it will be other streets such as Bakers Road, BYRA and beyond (with a longer walk).
    In the current carpark, Council proposes to increase the number of 4P spaces that are not accessible for CPPP from 9 to 11
    • We cannot have a reduction of 11 spaces for CPPP, every car space is important and should be used
    • There already are 9 existing 4P spaces and this number is sufficient for short term visitors
    The 10 spaces at ‘Botham’s Beach Carpark’ (old bus turning circle) currently have no restrictionsCouncil proposes that these become 12P
    • Again, this is a reduction of potential spaces for Offshore residents which is not acceptable
    • The 12P restriction should not apply to CPPP holders (i.e. should be CPPP exempt)
    There is reference to 60 privately leased spaces in the new carpark area, whereas the adopted budget for the project only assumed 50
    • The number of privately leased spaces should be kept to the minimum necessary to fund the project
    • This arrangement should cease once the 10-year loan is repaid
    Glossary of Carpark Space Types (existing and proposed)

     

    Type of Parking Space Where Who Can Park Here
    Pay and Display 24/7 (CPPP Exempt) Main carpark (approx. 273 spaces) Anyone with P&D, CPPP exempt 24/7
    4P 9:30am to 7:00pm Current arrangement for 9 spaces in the main carpark (including 5 beside the toilet block) Pay and display for up to 4 hoursNo CPPP exemption
    4P 6am to 6pm (CPPP Exempt) Current arrangement from Cargo Wharf up behind Holmeport CPPP at all times (24/7)Others 4p during day time
    4P CPPP exempt Already exists in the main carpark and proposed for the new carpark Pay and display for up to 4 hoursCPPP, no time limit
    CPPP Only 6pm to 6am Proposed for the main and new carpark CPPP at all times (24/7)Pay and display, only during day time
    4P 6am to 10pmNo exemption Proposed by Council for CP local streets 4 hours anyone, 6am to 10pmUp to 8 hours anyone, 10pm to 6am
    4P 6am -6pm CPPP exempt Proposed by Offshore for CP local streets 4 hours anyone, 6am to 6pmCPPP holders at all times (24/7)
    12P Proposed by Council for old bus turning circle Up to 12 hours anyone
    12P, CPPP exempt Proposed by Offshore for old bus turning circle Up to 12 hours anyone CPPP at all times (24/7)
    5 Min Parking Existing opposite PO Box and proposed for 2 spaces in the new carpark 5 minutes only anyone (for loading and unloading)

    More information

    • Council’s demand management proposal (link no longer active)
    • SIRA/WPCA Detailed analysis (link no longer active)

    COMMUNICATE YOUR VIEWS

    • Submit online (link no longer active)
    • Write to the General Manager: Pittwater Council, P.O. Box 882, Mona Vale 1660
    • Email: info@pittwater.nsw.gov.au – (link no longer active)
    • Email or talk directly to Councillors – (link no longer active)
    • Through Social Media: Pittwater Council is on Facebook and Twitter

    Submissions close on 10 April

    Source: Sira News

  • Update 3 – Stage 1 – July 2016 to April 2017

     

    Dear West Pittwater Community Association,

    As stage one of the Church Point Upgrade is about to start, we ask that you kindly share this update with your members.

    Between July 2016 and April 2017, we will undertake reclamation works and build a new sea wall, main road and walkway.

    Work to date

    Over the past few months we have worked with our contractor, Ward Civil and Environmental Engineering, to prepare for the construction and finalise designs. Work is also underway to approve details of the construction design and to develop aesthetics features, which is being done collaboratively with community representatives through an Aesthetics Advisory Committee.

    Works are almost complete on the construction of a temporary wharf that will offset commuter boat tie-ups during stage one and stage two works.

    What’s next?

    We expect to begin setting up the construction site towards the end of July although this is subject to final authority approvals. Initially this will include the contractor offices, environmental controls and temporary services. Related pedestrian, boating and traffic arrangements will also be made at this stage.

    Refer to the attached map or our website to view the location map, which highlights various aspects of the site.

    We will make every endeavour to minimise inconvenience during construction and keep you up to date along the way. More details will be shared on our website and via community updates. You are also welcome to make contact with me any time.

    Thank you for your patience while we prepare for construction.

    Regards
    Grant Tighe
    Project Manager,
    Church Point Upgrade
    NORTHERN BEACHES COUNCIL

  • Update 4 – Commencement of Church Point Upgrade Work

    Dear West Pittwater Community Association 

    Construction to revitalise Church Point is about to start, with the first stage (1A) scheduled to commence on Monday 15 August.

    The work will take approximately 18 months (subject to the weather) and includes land reclamation, a new seawall with a suspended timber boardwalk and the McCarrs Creek Road realignment between the café/general store and Rostrevor Reserve.

    The second stage of the works (1B) will involve the building of a new 120 space car park, service adjustments as well as pedestrian, property safety and access improvements.

    Council has worked closely with the local community to deliver the $10 million upgrade with the residents’ representative Aesthetics Advisory Committee playing a crucial part in the final look and functionality of the space.

    We are very conscious of the impact the construction may have on residents and wharf users and will do everything we can to minimise disruption during the construction period. We ask that during this time, where possible, you use the facility only when absolutely necessary and that the ferry may be a good option in some cases.

    You will be kept updated on the work as it progresses.

    If you would like further information, go to Council’s major projects page or contact me on 9970 1326.

    Thank you for your patience during this time.

    Regards
    Grant Tighe
    Project Manager Church Point
    Northern Beaches Council
    M: 0466 513 567

  • Update 5 – Changes to parking from Monday 22 August

    Stage 1 of the Church Point upgrade will commence on Monday 22 August.

    As part of the site establishment, the following changes will apply to parking between Rostrevor Reserve and Cargo Wharf and boat mooring arrangements at the Commuter Wharf. Please refer to the plan above

    From 7am Monday 22 August:

    • No parking in the three car spaces required for access into the Contractors compound in front of Rostrevor Reserve for the duration of the works – (orange area on plan).
    • No parking on the eastern side of Cargo Wharf. This area will become part of the works zone and will be part of the new road alignment and open green space.
    • There will be no change to Cargo Wharf and the temporary wharf in Rostrevor Reserve will be available for use by commuter permit holders.
    • Public set down spaces will be provided to service the Commuter Wharf drop off requirements during construction – (blue area on plan).
    • There will be pedestrian paths through Rostrevor Reserve and around the work zones to ensure pedestrian safety.
    • From 7am Thursday 25 August – No mooring of boats on the internal side of the existing commuter wharf (red zone on plan).
    • Mid September – Construction of alternate access ramp to existing commuter wharf (purple area on plan).

    For further information visit the Major Projects page
    Please call me at any time if you have any questions.
    We remain committed to minimising disruption to local residents, businesses and offshore users during the construction process.
    Regards   Grant Tighe
    Project Manager
    Church Point Northern Beaches Council
    M:  0466 513 567
    PO Box 882 Mona Vale  NSW 1660

  • WPCA SIRA – Response to Pasadena DA

    Mark Ferguson

    The Interim General
    Manager 
Northern Beaches Council
    PO Box 882
    MONA VALE NSW 1660

    7 September 2016

    Dear Mark,

    DA N0313/16 PASADENA 1858 PITTWATER ROAD CHURCH POINT NSW 2105

    The West Pittwater Community Association (WPCA) and Scotland Island Residents’ Association (SIRA) welcome the opportunity to respond to the Development Application (DA) in respect of the Pasadena building at Church Point and makes the following submissions.

    The WPCA and SIRA oppose the DA and submits that it should not be approved. Alternatively, if the DA is to be approved, our Associations submit that it should be made subject to the conditions described towards the end of this letter and that those conditions should be made immutable.

    Major Issues

    • inadequate car parking measures
    • poor ground plan design with a disregard for public use
    • inappropriate interface with Thomas Stephens Reserve, lack of curtilage along the water front and lack of permeability and public access through the leased landscape area
    • unacceptable appropriation of Crown Land and public space at ChurchPoint
    • lack of any community benefit with no small commercial lease offerings to outside operators
    • unjustifiable increase in building footprint on eastern side
    • hours of operation and noise concerns
    • total number of patrons and guests the Church Point precinct can accommodate
    • transport

    Carparking

    The DA makes provision for only 9 onsite parking spaces. The RMS guidelines, accompanying the DA,indicate 34 spaces should be provided.There is a shortfall of 25 parking spaces.

    We reject the arguments of ‘anticipating strong patronage from locals and offshore residents’ or ‘the proportion of restaurant/café patrons driving a car to/from the “Pasadena” is likely to be similar to the proportion who travel by car to/from restaurants and/or pubs in the inner city suburbs of Sydney’ as justification for reduced parking spaces. Church Point is an isolated location with minimal public transport and parking options with already strong competition for available parking spaces.

    Even using the report by John Coady Consulting Pty Ltd (Appendix B: Results Of Parking Accumulation Surveys), when the restaurant is likely to be used in the evenings and during the weekend at their highest predicted patronage, the Church Point Reserve and adjoining on street parking spaces are already practically full.

    It should also be remembered that in addition to patrons of the Pasadena, parking spaces in the precinct will also be required for staff.

    The new car park being built will provide4550publicly available spaces which may be subject to an exclusivity clause, as the facility is being paid for largely by offshore residents’ contributions through the Church Point parking permit scheme. It is intended to address the current shortfall of parking available to offshore residents already existing at Church Point. The car park will not provide 120 publicly available spaces as mentioned in the DA and no accounting has been made for other impending on street car space loss in adjacent streets.

    We strongly oppose any assertion there is adequate parking in the public car park to accommodate the 25 extra parking spaces the Pasadena needs to provide in accordance with the guidelines.

    Interface with Thomas Stephens Reserve

    The western edge of the Pasadena currently has a blank face to the reserve. This is important, as it gives this public park, the Reserve, privacy from neighbouring activity. The boundary, though not dimensioned numerically, scales at approximately 1.4m in front of the wall. A ramp is proposed to be entered at the roadway corner at a level of 1.8m and elevate via ramp sections to the internal floor level of 2.150m in 2 directions. A new glazed door and picture window overlooking the Reserve is proposed on the west and entry to the building lobby on the south or roadside.

    We oppose any new doors or windows or glazing of existing openings at the ground level on the western side of the Pasadena. This use undermines the existing privacy and use of the Reserve. The reference in the SEE to ‘activating’ this wall is opposed, as it is detrimental to the existing quality of privacy of the Reserve. It is in the public interest not to have oversight of the Reserve.

    If the ramp along the western side of the Pasadena is approved, the ensuing public works to be undertaken in precinct2 as part of the CPPoM will require a solid fence or wall to reestablish an ‘eastern’ back to the Reserve and user privacy. We propose a condition of consent (see below) to require a solid wall to screen the Reserve from oversight by ground level users of the Pasadena. Alternatively, the existing western wall can remain as it is on the ground level.

    The ramp access along the south or roadside face of the building appears to offer increased public amenity by providing covered pedestrian access along the portico as is now the case and providing awning cover over the footpath.

    Appropriation of public space at Church Point

    The northwestern corner of the proposed DA raises a number of concerns:

    • The use of the western side to access the building by ramp proposes to end in steps that will connect to the public waterfront access that exists around the point of land. This northwest corner is a pedestrian pinch point. Pittwater Council provided a wharf along the edge to enable public access around the point without encroaching on the Pasadena site. The stairs and the proposed timber deck at this northwest corner together dominate and appropriate the limited public space at the pinch point. The stairs and proposed treatment along the western facade are not supported.
    • The proposed firepit is located at approximately 1m inside the boundary at the place where public access returns to a more comfortable pedestrian width of about 1.5m. The low sandstone wall proposed will encourage seating and is likely to result in Pasadena patrons congregating on the public thoroughfare when the firepit is in use. We submit that the firepit should be relocated to an area that will not impose on public access or use.
    • The demolition of the existing external stairs at the northwestern corner has a number of impacts. The proposed timber deck is likely to extend the seating capacity. If bar stools are able to be used for dining purposes then the internal count of seats is 138. If the proposed deck with an 18 seat capacity is added to this, it increases the capacity to 156. The existing Church Point General Store with a license for 100 seated patrons regularly has numbers in excess of 150, (this does not include the additional patrons sitting in the Reserve). The proposed Pasadena restaurant shows a very sparse seating layout capable of considerable increase in table density. The proposed timber deck increases available patron area and hence seating capacity. Increased numbers of chairs and tables on the external areas beyond the restaurant’s covered areas will also lead to additional pressure to break the licence numbers and add increased pressure on the existing parking problems. The expansion in footprint on the eastern side of the building will not be required if the existing internal restaurant space was rightsized for purpose of its licensed capacity.
    • The timber boardwalk has a number of implications for public use of Church Point. The central pathway with its extension to the pontoon completely appropriates the public space of the point. Access to the pontoon can be easily managed via the perimeter public walkway at a closely adjacent point – where the firepit is proposed comes to mind. The public use of Church Point via the progressive implementation of the CPPoM has only just begun. The public’s expectations of their use of the point, especially the north grassed apron between the Pasadena leasehold and the public waterfront pathway, is high. No crossing through the main grassed public area can be countenanced. Adjacency to the public path is possible along the western edge, and as the pontoon is just a bit further along the western edge, traversing precious public open space can be avoided completely. The timber sleeper deck is not desirable as a pathway as it appropriates the public grassed area and confers upon it an entry garden status. This is not an appropriate cultural nor design outcome and is unnecessary. The leased garden area should be considered public domain and be designed

    in such a way as to encourage public use and movement across. This is a common practice with most councils when considering development applications. The dual use of public domain will benefit the community. The rope and bollard fencing should be pulled back to the covered area and no alcohol allowed past this point.

    Unjustifiable increase in building footprint on eastern side

    The proposal has not endeavoured to consolidate operational functions effectively. The location of the kitchen on the western side with the access ramp suggests that garbage movements will be next to the Thomas Stephens Reserve and along the public footpath in order to access the garbage enclosure and refrigerated garbage room. In addition to this planning consequence, the actual internal space of the restaurant is oversized for the maximum licensed capacity of 137. The reassignment of space and effective planning could mean the extension of the footprint is unnecessary.

    WPCA and SIRA oppose the extension of the building footprint.

    Hours of operation and noise concerns

    Opening hours of the restaurant and bar are incompatible with the small residential neighbourhood and highuse family transport hub of the Church Point precinct. Whilst a 24/7 motel (subject to acceptance of Existing Use Rights in accordance with the EP&A Act) may provide a level of safety in the immediate area, the opening hours of the restaurant and bar will exacerbate the foot traffic using the Church Point precinct for access to both public and private transport. This development is stated to be like a ‘hotel pub in the innercity’. That is not in keeping with the isolated residential setting or the demographics of the existing community of mostly young families and retirees.

    Noise from music, guests, refrigeration and delivery trucks are likely to impact nearby Church Point residents and offshore residents, especially in the t and nighttime when sound is amplified travelling across the water.

    Total number of patrons and guests the Church Point precinct can accommodate

    The DA calls for an occupancy of 138 patrons. This number is based on previous court cases and rulings in relation to the Pasadena building, but what it does not take into account is the increase of seating in the Waterfront Café that took effect after the previous rulings. Intensification of use was mentioned several times in both Land and Environment Court cases and in Pittwater Council’s rejection of previous DAs. In the event the application is approved, the maximum number of patrons should be limited to 138 minus any increase in seating numbers granted to the Waterfront Café since the previous determination. Note that 164 seats are shown on the DA which is a strong indication of what is intended and that, in fact, the proposal will be an intensification of use the precinct cannot accommodate.

    Transport

    There is very limited public transport (government buses) serving Church Point – less at night, on weekends and on public holidays when patronage of the Pasadena would be expected to be highest and staff also would require access. Consequently, it may be expected that there would be a substantial increase in motor vehicle traffic at those times. No proposal is made or condition suggested for Pasadena specific transport options (eg a minibus or commuter service from elsewhere). In the event the application is approved this should form a condition of consent.

    It would be our hope that the issues raised in our submission and the submission of others will be taken into account and the DA refused. In the event the development application is approved we request that it be heavily conditioned to respond to the issues raised above, namely:

    • the Pasadena needs to provide 25 extra parking spaces (34 spaces in total) in accordance with the guidelines
    • no oversight of Thomas Stephens Reserve from the ground level of the Pasadena
    • dual use of leased garden area for shared public use
    • restriction of hours of operation and nighttime functions to minimise noise travelling across water to better accommodate the isolated residential setting
    • limitation of total number of patrons for the Waterfront Café and Pasadena to minimise intensification as mentioned in both Land and Environment Court rulings and in Pittwater Council’s rejection of previous DA’s
    • Pasadena specific shuttle bus transport be incorporated
    • redesign of the ground floor level to allow for small community oriented commercial leaseholds

    Church Point is a unique locality with highly engaged residents, both onshore and offshore, who care passionately about where they live. The proposed DA focuses solely on maximising private uses, making no gesture to the public good while at the same time privatising large areas of public land via Crown leases.

    The approval authority has it within its jurisdiction to ensure a quality accessible public domain accessible to residents and visitors that enhances the character and qualities of the place.

     

    Yours sincerely,

    Michael Wiener
    President, WPCA
    president@westpittwater.com.au

    Bill Gye
    President, SIRA
    president@sira.org.au

  • Update 6 – Work at Communter Wharf

    Dear resident,

    As a local resident you are no doubt aware that Council has commenced works on the upgrade to Church Point.

    Specialist civil engineers Ward Civil and Environmental Engineering have commenced the first stage of the works, namely the new carpark and new road alignment.

    As part of these works, McCarrs Creek Road will be realigned and land reclaimed at the water’s edge to accommodate the new road and carpark. Due to this land reclamation, the existing commuter wharf needs to be moved 4 metres further into the channel so that safe access for dinghies and small vessels to the inshore berths can continue. The realignment of the existing wharf has been approved by the Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) and will not disturb the seafloor as the existing wharf piles will be reused .

    The relocation of the wharf will be done at the same time as the reclamation works to minimise construction noise and will be undertaken during normal construction hours of 7.00am – 5.00pm Monday – Friday, 7.00am – 1.00pm on Saturdays.

    If you have any further questions regarding the proposed upcoming works please feel free to contact me on 0466 513 567.

    Additionally, project information and updates can be viewed at our web page: www.pittwater.nsw.gov.au/majorprojects (no longer current)

    Grant Tighe

    Project Manager Church Point

    Northern Beaches Council

    M: 0466 513 567

    PO Box 882 Mona Vale NSW 1660

  • Update 7 – Community Consultation Summary - Demand Management

     

    The following is an update and thank you to community members who attended and/or spoke at Saturday’s Council’s Community Consultation on Parking Demand Management at Church Point at Mona Vale. Please following this link to the text of some of the Offshore presentations.

    About 180 people attended the Council meeting and we estimate that about 100-120 were from the Offshore Communities. This was a great turn up and demonstrates how important this issue is and what a cohesive and focused group we can be when required.

    The meeting was well run by the Administrator and, as a result of our representations and with a fair hearing by Council, an “amendment” to the most contentious proposal was made during the proceedings.

    Specifically, the alarming proposal about which we spoke and lobbied strongly against, was the introduction in late 2017 to make 52 spaces (roadside row in the main car park) NOT CPPP exempt (Church Point Parking Permit) over the weekend. When the Administrator, in consultation with Council staff, proposed an “amendment” to withdraw this proposal, which was then accepted, this was strongly applauded.

    The associated change was that 50% of the main carpark becomes “No Parking CPPP exempt 6pm to 6am”. This proposal was less than our previous proposal for 100%, but still a great improvement on the status quo. To be clear, the proposal now is that the main carpark remains 100% CPPP exempt 24/7 with the additional positive initiative that vehicles with a CPPP will get evening exclusivity between 6pm to 6am on the two waterside rows.

    In the new carpark the Council proposal was for 50% of all the non-leased (and non-disabled) spaces to be CPPP exclusive 6pm – 6am; we asked for 100%. The current Council position still needs to be clarified.

    The purpose of “CPPP only” evening parking is to provide a greater chance for Offshore residents to park after 6pm AND to shift public expectations. We would anticipate that it will help create a market and infrastructure for alternative means of access for visitors to Church Point.

    These changes will need to be formally ratified at the Council meeting on Tuesday, November 8 and will then still be required to go to the Council Traffic Committee for final review and implementation.

    Many other details and proposals about “Demand Management” were discussed, but the other big item was the future arrangement for our local streets. We communicated our understanding and acceptance of the need for greater safety in those streets and for Onshore residents to have clear access to their driveways. Council has worked hard to achieve measures to address these issues and will invest funds for future works in to improve width for safety and clear parking signage.

    Where we differed from our Onshore neighbours was advocacy for our proposal that the 4P parking spaces in the local streets only be Mon-Fri. We believe that this very reasonable compromise solves the problem of long-term warehousing of vehicles, but still allows weekend parking for all users of Church Point. This proposal is still under negotiation.

    We encourage all residents to write to Council to express their views and to attend the Council meeting on November 8.

  • Update 8 – Parking Demand Management Update

    Northern Beaches Council would like to advise you all that the Church Point Parking Demand Management Strategy was supported at Council on 8 November 2016 and at Traffic Committee on 6 December 2016.

    We are working to implement Stage One of the strategy prior to Christmas.

    These works will consist of:

    • No Parking and No Stopping in certain areas in Baroona Road, Eastview Road and Quarter Sessions Road
    • Road widening in certain areas in Eastview Road
    • Church Point Reserve car park, Row 1:
      • 12P 6am – 6pm, CPP excepted
      • No Parking 6pm – 6am, CPP only

    Michelle Carter
    Active Travel Officer Transport & Urban
    Northern Beaches Council
    P: 02 9970 1196

  • Update 9 – Next Stages

    Project update

    13 April 2017

    Work has progressed well on the Church Point Wharf Upgrade, and we thank commuters for their patience during the temporary wharf relocation over the past month. The installation of ground anchors was completed earlier this month and the construction of the sea wall is nearing completion with excess sheet pile lengths being cut and a concrete capping beam being constructed on top of the seawall.

    Next stages
    After Easter we’ll commence work to construct the new timber boardwalk on the seaward side of the seawall. This will involve installing timber piles – resulting in some short-term noise impacts for local residents. We thank residents for their understanding during the construction of this important infrastructure project.

    Based on current program the seawall, boardwalk and road realignment works are estimated to be completed late August 2017.

    Once traffic is shifted onto the new road alignment the works to construct the new carpark will commence.

    Information on this project can be found on Council’s Major Projects Page. Please feel free to share this information with your networks.Regards

    Grant Tighe
    Project Manager Church Point
    Northern Beaches Council
    Council Customer Service : 9970 1111

  • Update 10 – Leased Spaces Round 2

    We’re pleased to advise that the carpark is progressing rapidly and is currently estimated to be completed mid-late April 2018.

    Over the next few weeks the ramps to the top floor of the carpark and timber façade will be constructed as well as the realignment of the road near the General Store to remove the double curve in preparation for the second stage of the works.

    Stage 2
    These works have been designed to improve pedestrian safety in the precinct as well as enhance the recreational opportunities at Church Point. The works will involve extending the Boardwalk around the General Store, adjusting the access road and associated roadworks in front of the Pasadena.

    We will also be undertaking the reconstruction of Cargo Wharf to improve user safety and functionality for both private and commercial uses. These works will be tendered shortly and will include both the design development, liaison with local residents and stakeholders and construction.

    We thank you for your patience and understanding during this important project.

    Information about the project is available on the Church Point Upgrade project page.

    Church Point Car Parking – Round 2
    Parking spaces are still available to off-shore residents (Scotland Island, Elvina Bay, Lovett Bay, Morning Bay and Douglass Estate) for a two year term in the new carpark on McCarrs Creek Rd, Church Point.

    Round 2 ballot is now open. For more information, eligibility and to submit your application visit Council’s webpage.

    Please note that the previously advertised price on our website and application form incorrectly stated the price as $4,939 per year + GST, however the correct price is $4, 939 per year inclusive of GST.

    Round 2 applications close 25 March.

    Enquiries: parkingoperations@northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au  
    Regards The Community Engagement Team

    Michelle Carter
    Active Travel Officer Transport & Urban
    Northern Beaches Council
    P: 02 9970 1196

  • Update 11 – Round 3 opening Saturday 24 March

    As rounds one and two have not filled all the available spaces, we will be opening round three on Saturday 24 March2018.

    Once all spaces have been filled, an independent ballot system will allocate your coupon number and parking space. This process will be conducted under the supervision of an independent officer from the Office of Integrity and Complaints Resolution.

    Further information, eligibility and an application form will be available on our webpage from Saturday 24 March 2018.

    Eligibility criteria for round three has changed. Round three now requires the applicant to be a property owner or tenant (not permanent resident) of an offshore nominated location, and the applicant must have had a Church Point permit at some time between 1 July 2010 and 17 February 2018. For rounds three and four, more than one application per property can be processed.

    Please note that the previously advertised price on our website and application form incorrectly stated the price as $4,939 per year + GST, however the correct price is $4,939 per year inclusive of GST.

    The car park will be open for those with a ‘coupon’ from 1 May 2018, with your Church Point Reserved Parking Space coupon being valid until 30 April 2020. Should works be completed prior to this date permit holders will be able to park their vehicles during this time at no additional cost.

    Third round applications close: Sun 8 Apr
    Enquiries: parkingoperations@northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au
    Regards Community Engagement Team