I object to the proposed demolition of 41 Amiens Street, Gladesville. The property sits on a leafy, well‑vegetated block with mature trees, established gardens, and ornamental bushes and shrubs at the front of the house that contribute positively to the streetscape and neighbourhood character. The loss of these mature trees, gardens, and front‑of-house plantings would reduce urban canopy, diminish habitat for native birds and bees, and weaken the environmental and visual amenity of the area.
The existing dwelling appears to be a mid‑20th‑century house with original architectural features such as brick and sandstone construction, timberwork, and leadlight windows. These elements, together with the front garden plantings, contribute to the historic character and streetscape of the neighbourhood. Its demolition would result in an irreversible loss of both environmental and architectural value.
The City of Ryde Development Control Plan 2014 (DCP) provides planning controls and objectives guiding development, including tree preservation (Part 9.5 – Tree Preservation) and assessment of impacts on streetscape and neighbourhood character. The DCP highlights the importance of conserving trees, shrubs, and character‑contributing buildings to ensure new development is sympathetic to the existing neighbourhood.
The removal of mature trees, front garden shrubs, and a character‑contributing dwelling represents an irreversible loss for the community. I urge Ryde Council to give full consideration to the DCP’s objectives on tree and vegetation preservation, streetscape character, and historic buildings, and to explore alternatives that retain the existing greenery and historic elements of the property wherever possible.
