An open letter to the community by Jill L’Estrange, published 14 October 2024 by Mosman Collective >
Let it be clear that the Headland Preservation Group is supportive of upgrading the sporting facilities at Middle Head Oval, but not at the expense of the desecration of the exceptional values of the precinct.
It was the efforts of HPG over 25 years ago that ensured Middle Head was saved from a sell-off by the Department of Defence for residential development. The Commonwealth Government realised the national importance of this land and established the Harbour Trust to protect, conserve and interpret its environmental and heritage values for the benefit of all Australians.
Middle Head Oval is located on this land and managed by the Harbour Trust. Mosman Council purports to have a licence to use and build upon this land, but it must be recognised that any proposed development is subject to the Trust Act and its requirement to protect its highly significant values.
The bulk, style and scale of the proposed development is at odds with the heritage and environmental values of the precinct.
Located at the entrance to the only remaining intact heritage military village in Australia, the proposed development will have a significant visual impact on that precinct.
Mosman Council has allocated the codes of AFL and soccer to Middle Head Oval for local sport. However, the proposed covered outdoor seating area (referred to in DA documents as a grandstand) is of a size greater than that required for a State AFL game. The grandstand’s excessive size degrades the important values of the precinct, and it is an inappropriate facility for an oval allocated to local sport. No wonder Mosman Council approved the development proposal behind closed doors and conducted no broad community consultation.
Apart from the two sporting groups, AFL and Soccer, significant community stakeholder groups, including HPG, Mosman Parks & Bushland Association, Mosman RSL and the wider community, were not consulted. Why? Aren’t Mosman Councillors elected to represent the entire community? In this instance, they failed dismally in their duty to consult widely. It is earnestly hoped that the newly elected Council will be more open to hearing the views of its constituents.
Middle Head is the jewel in the crown of Sydney Harbour. It is unique in Australia for its indigenous, colonial and military heritage and extraordinary environmental values. These values should not be put at risk.
The development proposal which is currently being considered by the Harbour Trust must be withdrawn by Council and amended to provide facilities more fitting for the location. Read HPG’s full submission here >
Jill L’Estrange
President
Headland Preservation Group