WORK TO PROVIDE A SMALL CONVENIENCE STORE IN LANE COVE NORTH
WALK TO BUY WHAT YOU NEED - WITHOUT THE NEED TO DRIVE TO THE VILLAGE
In July we delivered our Community Survey to the residents of Lane Cove North. We received feedback that residents would overwhelmingly like to see a small convenience store, local shops or more cafes in Lane Cove North.
At the October 2021 Council Meeting, Clr Andrew Zbik asked for Lane Cove Council to consider the following:
Proposed Resolution
That Council:
- Write to landowners within the Lane Cove North area who own land zoned R4 who have not yet lodged a Development Application to ask their level of interest in developing a neighbourhood centre concept.
- Request that a report be submitted to Council outlining what is required to further the proposal.
Surprisingly, this motion was REJECTED by the majority of Councillors including the two other West Ward Councillors.
THE FACTS:
- It is possible that a small 400 square metre convenience store could be provided within the current R4 High Density Residential zoning.
- If a convenience store or other shops are desired with a floor plan larger than 400 square metres, a rezoning to 'B4 Mixed Use' zone that includes both residential and commercial could be considered. This would require further community consultation and input before any such plans are finalised.
- There are nine blocks of land that are zoned for R4 High Density Residential in Lane Cove North that do not have a Development Application for apartments approved or under consideration. SEVEN of these blocks of land are owned by the NSW State Government via the NSW Housing Corporation/NSW Department of Housing.
- Lane Cove North residents would have a small scale convenience store or local shops that they would walk to; there would be minimal risk of introducing additional traffic.
Compared to other neighbourhood centres in the LGA, Lane Cove North has more residents and is the furthest away from the village. Current zoning prohibits commercial development in the area. Lane Cove North needs local shopping and community services. Without a neighbourhood centre, the rapidly growing population are forced to drive to the village for basic services, increasing traffic and reducing incidental activity. The Lane Cove North community is also more isolated and has fewer community-minded public spaces. Mindarie Park is a wonderful space; ideal for families with children. A small neighbourhood centre would cater to the entire spectrum of households.