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Clover's eNews – Issue 407 – Friday, 25 July 2008

Important North Eveleigh Meeting Saturday

I urge you to join me for an important meeting at Track 8, Eveleigh Carriageworks, 245 Wilson Street (cnr Codrington Street), 2pm Saturday 26 July, to learn about an alternative plan for this historic site, described by the Smithsonian Institute as one of the rarest and most intact industrial precincts in the world.

Redfern Waterloo Authority (RWA) proposals for North Eveleigh will overdevelop the site, increase traffic impacts and fail to meet sustainability requirements. The University of Sydney's more sympathetic plan for the site will be presented to the meeting.

The former Eveleigh Railway Workshop complex is locally, nationally and internationally recognised for its history and heritage. It played an instrumental role in the development of the country's rail network and was the site of the commencement of the Great National Strike in 1917. Structurally it provides a fine example of 1880s Georgian architecture.

The simple, strong functional forms of the buildings are landmarks for generations of city rail commuters. The remaining tools and equipment within the Large Erecting Shop demonstrate past processes of heavy industry, and the hard work, skills and capacity of workers of the time.

Other State Governments have celebrated rail heritage, such as the Western Australia State Government which supported the Midland Railway Workshop rail heritage "living museum" and the Queensland Government initiated Ipswich Workshops Rail Museum.

But under the RWA proposal, for which the State Planning Minister is sole consent authority, development on this iconic site will include:

a range of buildings between four and 16 storeys (equivalent to the TNT Towers);

parking for almost 2000 cars;

construction of over 1,200 dwellings for 2,400 new residents;

unsympathetic re-use of heritage buildings, including an apartment building on top of the historic Paintshop which would require demolition of most of the building's most visible façade; and

a range of new buildings over the fan-of-tracks to the east of the Paintshop.

Traffic modelling in the plan does not appear to accurately reflect the existing situation on surrounding roads or take into account long-standing proposals to close Shepherd and Ivy Streets north of Abercrombie and Butlin Avenue within the University.

The concept doesn't include progressive environmental initiatives needed to meet sustainability targets for Sydney and proposed public spaces are poor, consisting of a series of small, narrow and fragmented areas. The concept is also poorly integrated with surrounding residential areas.

Come and hear about an alternative and campaign for a better outcome for this significant site.

Information

North Eveleigh Meeting, 2pm Saturday 26 July, Track 8, Carriageworks, 245 Wilson Street, Darlington (cnr Codrington Street).

Related information: | Heritage | Planning & Development | eNews |

Supporting Laneways Revitalisation

An exciting new grants program to revitalise CBD laneways will be considered by Council next Monday, complementing other initiatives such as the temporary art program "By George!" that will transform four laneway networks off George Street during the City's Art and About in October.

To encourage small retail, service and hospitality businesses in blank or vacant spaces in CBD laneways, the City proposes to provide business development grants of up to $30,000, from a budget pool of $150,000. If successful, the program will provide a model for use in other areas.

Businesses will be able to use the grants to help fund capital works such as fit out, new equipment or other costs associated with setting up the business. Up to 10 per cent of the grant may be used for promotion. Businesses will need to match the City's cash grant dollar-for-dollar and meet selection criteria.

The City will also employ a Business Development Officer to advise potential operators and property owners on creating successful businesses in laneways, and help them navigate through the various approvals and licensing requirements.

By George! will begin on 3 October, with four teams of artists creating new temporary artworks in Abercrombie Lane, the Angel Place, Ash Street and Bridge Lane network and the Curtin Place, Hamilton Street and Little Hunter Street networks. The program builds on the City's successful Live Laneways which were a highlight of Art and About in 2007.

Information

www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/Council/MeetingsAndCom...

Related information: | Arts & Culture | eNews |

New Liquor Laws Focus for City East Community Forum

The new liquor laws that came into effect at the start of July will be discussed at next Wednesday's City East Community Forum at the Rex Centre, Kings Cross, next to Fitzroy Gardens.

At the forum, Michael Foggo, the Director of Liquor, Gaming and Racing, will explain how the new laws operate, including increased opportunities for Councils and the community to be get action.

Last year, the City adopted its innovative Late Night Trading Development Control Plan (DCP) to limit hours and tighten management controls for new and redeveloped premises. While the DCP's approach has increased our success in Court when operators challenge the City's development refusals, the State legislation continued to obstruct our efforts to reign in problem venues.

The new law enables the City to go to the Director of Liquor and Gaming about problem venues on behalf of our communities, with the Director empowered to impose strong conditions. Council, police or a group of residents can also make a "disturbance complaint" to the Director.

On straightforward matters, Councils can request the Director to impose conditions; for more serious issues, Council or police can make a complaint to the Casino, Liquor and Gaming Control Authority for disciplinary action, which can lead to a suspended license and fines up to $110,000.

The new law also requires applicants for a new license to prepare a Community Impact Statement in consultation with the local community and Council. Where development approval is needed, the Impact Statement will be done at the same time as consultation for the development application and the Authority will need to ensure that consent is in force before granting a licence.

The City East Forum will also include presentations on recent development issues in the area and the City East Local Action Plan, including the Stanley Street upgrade, refurbishment of the Burton Street Tabernacle and plans to expand Kings Cross Library. From 6pm, you can discuss your concerns with Councillors, Council staff or local police. Formal presentations begin at 6.45pm.

Information

City East Community Forum, 6pm-8.30pm, Wednesday 30 July, Rex Centre, off Baroda Street, Kings Cross (next to Fitzroy Gardens).

Related information: | Policing & Safety | eNews |

Strategy to make motorcycles safer and more attractive

A draft strategy to make riding scooters and motorcycles safer and cheaper will be considered for public exhibition by Council's Planning, Development and Transport Committee on Monday.

Motorcycles and scooters are becoming more popular as traffic congestion increases, petrol prices rise and parking becomes more difficult. The number of registered motorcycles rose from 351,000 to 512,000 between 2001 and 2007, with 64,186 motorcycles and scooters sold in the first six months of this year, an increase of 6.6 per cent for the same period in 2007.

A small scooter generally consumes less than three litres of petrol per 100 kilometres, compared with six-cylinder cars that consume in excess of 11 litres per 100 kilometres. Scooters and motorbikes are easier to park and can reduce demand for space, with five scooters or motorbikes able to fit into one car space.

In order to better support the many benefits, the City's draft strategy proposes:

exempting motorcycles and scooters from ticket parking fees on City streets;

working with the RTA to investigate more motorcycle parking;

trialling public charging points for electric scooters;

trialling on-street fastening points to secure motorbikes; and

reviewing city streets to remove hazards and obstacles that increase risks for motorcyclists.

The draft strategy aims to support the City's commitment to sustainable transport options and the shift away from more vehicles. It has been developed in response to rider input and in cooperation with motorcycle writer Peter Thoeming and the Motorcycle Council of NSW.

Environmental measures in the draft Strategy include advocacy for national emissions standards and inclusion of motorcycles in the Green Vehicle Guide. The City will also work with the RTA on its successful education programs and advocate for better tolling options on motorways.

The parking fee exemption will complement the 600 free, untimed parking spots that the City already provides across the CBD and inner city suburbs. It responds to the difficulties faced by riders who cannot securely display parking tickets. Motorcyclists and scooter riders will still be required to comply with maximum time restrictions to encourage parking turnover.

On Monday night, the Planning, Development and Transport Committee will consider a recommendation to publicly exhibit the Strategy for six weeks, commencing in August. This will enable broad comment on the proposals before a final strategy is adopted by Council.

Information

Draft Strategy and Committee Report: www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/Council/MeetingsAndCom...

Related information: | Transport | eNews |

Discuss Green Square Developments

The Green Square Forum on Tuesday 29 July will provide an update on development in the City's south, including the Green Square Town Centre. This is the first in a regular series of consultations that were requested by residents at a public meeting held in March 2008.

Significant development applications in the area will be presented at the Forum, along with updates on Green Square Town Centre planning, including the public domain and community facilities.

Public transport is a major issue for Green Square, with many residents concerned about Sydney Buses' proposed changes to the bus routes in the area. The City is developing concepts and plans for integrated transport through a joint project with the NSW Ministry of Transport. There will be an update on the transport project and an opportunity for input provided at the Forum.

At its meeting next Monday, the City's Planning Development and Transport Committee will also consider proposed built form controls for the Green Square Renewal Area.

The report to Committee outlines the proposed planning controls (land use, height and FSR) for the Green Square area and includes a comprehensive background paper summarising studies done to develop the controls. The background papers focus on environmental sustainability, quality design and renewal by developing proposals for built form, integrated transport, an open space network, useable and beautiful public domain, and flood management.

The report recommends Council place the proposals on the City's website for further informal community consultation, while we finalise the New City Plan for formal exhibition.

Information

Community Forum: 6-7.30pm Tuesday 29 July, Green Square Community Facility, 3 Joynton Avenue, Zetland

Committee reports: www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/Council/MeetingsAndCom...

Related information: | Planning & Development | eNews |

Introducing Andrew Duckmanton, Independent Candidate

Andrew Duckmanton will stand with me as part of the Clover Moore Independent Team at the Local Council Elections. Andrew is committed to the economic, social and environmental sustainability of this City as a business owner, a passionate and active part of the Sydney business community and as a father of two young boys aged 3 years and 11 months.

As President of the Darlinghurst Business Partnership over the past two years, Andrew has been instrumental in developing new strategies to revitalise and promote the area. He is also Vice-President of the Business Alliance Council of Sydney.

Prior to establishing Grandma Takes A Trip with his partner Nicola Sault in 2002, Andrew had 15 years experience in the corporate sector working as a strategist and consumer working with clients such as Toyota, Nissan, Westfield, Nestle, Goodman Fielder, Woolworths/Safeway, Coles, Westpac and community/not-for-profit organisations such as the Alzheimer's Association.

Andrew also worked with the City of Melbourne on the revitalisation strategy for the city through the activation of the city's laneways and had input into Tourism Victoria's successful "every piece of Victoria" campaigns.

With two retail outlets and an 8,000 piece collection of vintage clothing, Andrew's business has established itself one of Sydney's finer retro fashion boutiques. It has also created a range of sustainable clothing and homewares using recycled and vintage material.

Andrew will be a strong voice for small to medium business and his unique knowledge of the corporate world and the challenges which small to medium business face will be invaluable.

Andrew Duckmanton writes:

"The role of small to medium business in the cultural and economic sustainability of our city cannot be underestimated. The diversity and uniqueness of every business adds to the character and flavour of Sydney.

"Small Business is doing it tough at the moment and, without programs, policy and sustainable forms of support, we risk seeing fantastic businesses disappear. The high cost for new businesses and strong competition from redeveloped shopping centres means that the businesses we lose won't be automatically replaced.

"New approaches are needed to ensure our villages and high streets remain vibrant and creative and are filled with unique shops and experiences. While chain stores have a role to play, they shouldn't dominate our local villages. Shops owned and managed by individuals can provide unique experiences that you won't find elsewhere.

"Developing our villages in this way will provide uniquely Sydney experiences. They will be places we are proud of and frequent often, while encouraging people from interstate and overseas to revisit. This is what Melbourne has achieved so successfully over the last 10 years. We need to move beyond convenience and into a sustainable culture.

"During the development of Sustainable Sydney 2030 I was impressed by the platform it provided for our City's future. It re-invigorated my belief in how important the sum of the parts is to the whole-from the way we use electricity and move around this City; to the role of arts and culture, and the absolute need for unique businesses to flourish, providing a thriving and eclectic village economy.

"Sustainable Sydney 2030 inspired me to develop new strategies for the Darlinghurst area, building on the arts and culture. Our retail experiences-shops, cafes, restaurants and eclectic traders-are more integral to our culture than most realise.

"When Clover and her team asked me if I would join them, I was amazingly humbled. For the last 20 years, Clover has staved off the selling out of our City. Without her influence, I believe we would be living in an overdeveloped, under resourced and bland urban environment.

"Over the past four and a half years, Clover's Team has built an amazing base for Sydney to be one of the greatest cities in the world. The next four years are fundamental in making Sustainable Sydney 2030 happen, and supporting the Independent Team is a way to ensure it.

"Personally, I wouldn't like to leave it to party politics - we don't have the time to make the mistakes of the past. We must all must contribute to achieving Sustainable Sydney 2030 to ensure we leave a City for our children and grand-children we are proud of."

Related information: | Clover Moore Independent Team | eNews |

Preventing Smoking Habits

While smoking rates have declined, over 18 per cent of men and over 16 per cent of women still smoke. Research indicates that most smokers begin the habit in their teens.

Every year smoking causes over 6,500 deaths in NSW. Action is needed to reduce the number of underage smokers, prevent long-term smoking habits and increase access to smoke free environments.

My submission on NSW Government proposals in the Protecting Children from Tobacco discussion paper supports reforms to reduce children and young people's access to tobacco smoke, including a ban on smoking in cars with a child present, where children are particularly vulnerable to environmental tobacco smoke due to the limited airflow.

I recommended sales bans by employees under 18 or in vending machines, both of which currently make access to tobacco easier for minors. I also supported a ban on tobacco product displays, as research shows that displays influence children's perceptions about cigarettes and make it harder for smokers to quit.

I was concerned to read media reports this week that Cabinet could block some of these important proposals. I have long called for regulations that effectively protect children from the health impacts of tobacco smoke and hope that the Government listens to the community and enacts these important tobacco reforms.

While I strongly support smoking bans in enclosed venues, I am concerned about the impacts that increased smoking on footpaths has on the public domain. In Parliament I asked the Premier about the NSW Government's planned strategies to address these impacts. I expect a reply soon.

Related information: | eNews |

Make a Difference

"Making It Happen, Making A Difference" is a series of Community Organising Forums open to anyone who is interested in grass roots social activism.

The project is part of Ultimo College's TAFE Outreach "Living in Harmony" program, which aims to bring community builders and organisers together to learn from each other's experiences. Ultimo College is working in partnership with the City of Sydney, Housing NSW and a number of non-Government Organisations to host the forums, and Councillor Robyn Kemmis is the patron.

Eva Cox will be the keynote speaker for the first forum, which will be held from 10.30am to 2.30pm 13 August at the Cafe Church Hall at 37 St Johns Road Glebe, with lunch and afternoon tea provided. While participants will decide future topics and speakers, a number of organisations have agreed to share their expertise, including Concerned Older Women, the Community Housing Network and the Gathering Ground.

I encourage you to get involved so you can meet other active people in your neighbourhood and have a say in how your community should be run.

Information:

Charmaine Jones, phone 0432 597 279 or 9217 5005 or emailcj66@bigpond.net.au.

Related information: | eNews |

Event Alert

LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY: The Legislative Assembly sits again 23 September 2008. For sitting days, see www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/prod/web/common.nsf/key/HHBSitDay2008

CITY OF SYDNEY: Committees and Council meet Monday evenings and the Central Sydney Planning Committee meets Thursdays, generally every three weeks, in the Council Chamber, Sydney Town Hall. Committees next meet on Monday 28 July and the next Council meeting is on Monday 4 August, beginning at 5pm.

BURTON STREET TABERNACLE CELEBRATION: Join the Lord Mayor and Councillors for morning tea to celebrate the completion of Stage One of the restoration of this historic building. 11am-1pm Saturday 26 July, corner Burton and Palmer Streets, Darlinghurst.

EVELEIGH COMMUNITY FORUM: hear about the University of Sydney's draft Campus 2020 Masterplan and discuss the future of the North Eveleigh precinct. Saturday 26 July, 2-4pm at Carriageworks' Track 8, 245 Wilson Street Eveleigh (Corner Codrington Street).

SPAIDS TREE PLANTING: Sunday 27 July 11am-3pm at Sydney Park. The 34th session of tree planting to honour those who have died from the effects of HIV/AIDS, and lesbians, gay men and transgender people who died as a result of violence. You can plant a City of Sydney-supplied native tree to remember a loved one and sign the remembrance book. Free picnic lunch around midday. Information: Mannie de Saxe or Kendall Lovett josken@zipworld.com.au

ANKALI TRAINING: 26 & 27 July and 2 & 3 August. The Ankali Project trains volunteers to provide emotional and social support to people living with HIV/AIDS. They seek warm, friendly, understanding & accepting people who can spare up to six hours a week, and can commit for six months. Information: phone 9332 9742 or email ankali@sesiahs.health.nsw.gov.au

BUILDING COMMUNITIES FOR HARMONY: Tuesday 29 July at Glebe Town Hall. Forum on community organising including case studies and success stories. Information: Charmaine Jones phone 0432 597 279 or email cj66@bigpond.net.au.

CITY EAST COMMUNITY FORUM: 6pm-8.30pm, Wednesday 30 July, Rex Centre, off Baroda Street, Kings Cross (next to Fitzroy Gardens).

GREEN SQUARE COMMUNITY FORUM: 6-7.30pm Tuesday 29 July, Green Square Community Facility, 3 Joynton Avenue, Zetland.

EARLY INTERVENTION FOR YOUNG PEOPLE: Saturday 23 August 10am-1pm at Wayside Chapel. City Edge Initiative forum on working with young people to prevent health problems. Information and RSVP: email ceiwellbeing@gmail.com or phone Katrina 9358 5582.

RIDE FOR LIFE: Sunday 17 August 2008 at Centennial Park. Fun 2km ride that raises funds for the Oncology Unit at Prince of Wales Hospital. Information: Phill Bates email phillbates@cycleclassic.com.au or web www.rideforlife.org.au

PROVIDING LOCAL ACCOMMODATION: Saturday 18 August 10am-1pm at Matthew Talbot Hostel. City Edge Initiative forum on housing for homeless people with a mental illness. Information and RSVP: email ceiwellbeing@gmail.com or phone Katrina 9358 5582.

COUNCIL ELECTIONS: Saturday 13 September. Electoral rolls close 6pm Monday 4 August. There is no interstate or overseas voting at local government elections. Electors who cannot vote at a polling place on election day may apply to vote before as either a postal voter or a pre-poll voter. Information: phone 1300 135 736.

LUNCHTIME CONVERSATIONS: Free short lunchtime discussion sessions each Wednesday at the Sydney Mechanics School of Arts at 12.30-1.30pm. Information: phone 9262 7300 or web: www.sydneymsa.com.au

GLOBAL AFFAIRS DIALOGUES: First Monday evening of each month at the Sydney Mechanics School of Arts at 7pm. Topics include climate change, war and social strife. Information: phone 0431 605 374 or email dialogue_quest@hotmail.com

WATERSHED SUSTAINABILITY WORKSHOPS: Worm Farming, Composting, Natural Cleaning, and Eco Choices Workshops are held at the Watershed Sustainability Resource Centre, 218 King Street, Newtown, or at Rosebery Community Centre, 78 Harcourt Parade Rosebery. Information: phone 9519 6366, email watershed@marrickville.nsw.gov.au or web www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/Environment/TheWatersh...

BIKESYDNEY TWILIGHT RIDES: Every second Tuesday of the month from the GPO steps Martin Place, between George and Pitt Streets, meet 5.45pm for a 6pm departure. Two hour rides from 10 to 20km. Contact BikeSydney for details: email cityride@bikesydney.org or web http://bikesydney.org/new

POLICING PRECINCT MEETINGS: All Police Commands hold Community Safety Precinct Committee meetings (replacing the former PACT meetings) to identify and act on local crime and safety concerns. Clover is represented at Command that covers the Sydney electorate and Council officers work with Police in all Commands that cover the City of Sydney. Information, contact Roy Bishop, phone 9360 3053 or email sydney@parliament.nsw.gov.au

TOUR PARLIAMENT HOUSE: First Thursday of each month 1-2pm. Visit the NSW Legislative Assembly and Council chambers, historic parts of this public building, and learn about the role of parliament within our system of government. No bookings necessary. Meet in the forecourt of Parliament House from 12.45pm for a 1pm start. Information: Education Section, phone 9230 2047.

COMMUNITY CENTRES & LIBRARIES: City of Sydney community centres and libraries present a range of events and activities for people of all ages and backgrounds. Information is published on the City's website www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au under the Community menu.

EVENTS IN THE CITY: For more events in the City of Sydney area, visit www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/WhatsOn. You can subscribe to email alerts to let you know about events, Development Applications and announcements from the City of Sydney.

Related information: | eNews |