Submission to Sydney Harbour Federation Trust10 December 2013Name withheld by requestReproduced with permissionDear Sydney Harbour Federation Trust:The following is my submission of comments regarding
- Draft Management Plan for Middle Head Precinct (Amendment 1), and
- Proposed Development – Residential Care Facility.
I oppose both the Amendment and the Proposed development.During the active debate regarding these topics in the community and on several radio shows many points have been brought up regarding the appropriateness, legality, and thoughtfulness of the Amendment and Proposed Development.While I strongly agree that these proposals go against what the Trust should be striving for, my objection is not because the renderings of the buildings are particularly unattractive or because I’m concerned about the quality of care that would be given by the proponent. It is simply a matter of preservation of history and unique public spaces.I was never able to see the old Pennsylvania train station in New York as it was demolished in the 1960’s. From pictures and records I can tell it was an amazing structure with a beautiful glass and steel central atrium. I have been lucky enough though, to see Grand Central Station. There was a time that was going to be demolished as well, but through community action, it was saved. We rarely regret the old buildings of historical significance we keep. The Rocks in Sydney is a great local example.There are plenty of other appropriate sites for residential care facilities to be built. Australia has more land per capita than most countries. However, we only have a few precious areas that are as beautiful and of as much historical significance as Middle Head and other sites managed by the Trust. It would be a pity to begin going down the path of overdeveloping them, destroying the opportunity for future generations to experience them.My request is simple: Look at the big picture, think long-term, and preserve this treasure we have all been handed and you have been asked to manage.Best regards,Tenant of the Trust at Georges Heights