The original design of the Thomas Stephens Reserve was put out 3 years ago. Northern Beaches Council has recently released a revised version as a result of Community Consultation.
Details of the revised project can be found here.
You will find there information on the project including background, consultation history (April-May 2021), revised landscape design, arborist advice, and community engagement report.
The WPCA Committee has reviewed the revised design and sent through a response with further suggested changes. The main points the WPCA committee feels need to be addressed are:
- Canopy reduction and removal of established trees
- Bike rack within reserve footprint
- Reduction in open civil space
With regard to the canopy reduction and removal of established trees, architect and Elvina Bay resident, Chris Freeburn, has reviewed Council’s plan and the associated Arborist’s Report. He maintains that replacement planting is no substitute for the preservation of established canopy trees and believes the most appropriate approach is to undertake the works in a way that incorporates, protects and preserves the existing mature native canopy trees that already exist in the reserve.
Read Chris’ response here.
Thomas Stephens Reserve has always been an important social hub for the offshore community and the WPCA is encouraging residents to make a response to Council if they feel strongly on any points raised by WPCA, Chris, or from the Project material.
Write your letter to:
Barbara Stack,
Senior Asset Management Officer
barbara.stack@northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au
Note: Council will soon release its revised plan for road realignment and associated works to Pittwater Road at Church Point for community comment. WPCA will advise when it is released.