Forresters Beach dwelling and pool changes refused after 4-0 panel vote

Plans for an amended dwelling, swimming pool, retaining walls and terrace at 1 Yumbool Close, Forresters Beach, have been refused unanimously after the Central Coast Local Planning Panel found the proposal was not of minimal environmental impact.

The 4-0 decision rejected a Section 4.55 modification to consent DA/1974/2023/A. The application covered a development involving demolition of the existing dwelling and swimming pool, with the northern retaining wall and terrace retained.

The panel found the proposal was inconsistent with the objectives of the R2 Low Density Residential zone because it failed to maintain the locality’s desired future character. It also found the development would create an unacceptable built form when viewed from the street.

The roof terrace and access staircase were described as visually dominant. The panel said the development’s overall height, bulk, façade articulation and roof terrace presented as more than the intended two-storey character under the Central Coast Development Control Plan 2022.

An enlargement of Bedroom 1 did not meet the plan’s minimum side setback. The reduced building separation was found to create unreasonable amenity impacts and an outcome that did not achieve orderly and proper planning.

The panel also raised concerns about the elevated, unenclosed rooftop terrace. It found the terrace was likely to increase noise transmission and disturbance for neighbouring homes and private open-space areas.

A proposed new retaining wall in the south-west corner was also found not to be the same, or substantially the same, development as the one previously approved.

Objectors and external referral bodies are to be notified of the refusal. The applicant may revise or resubmit the proposal, or pursue any available statutory review or appeal options. The timing of any further action was not specified.