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Dear members and supporters, The Draft Master Plan for Middle Head released 18 March 2023 lacks critical information. It is an architectural vision statement NOT a draft master plan. The Harbour Trust’s promotional brochure is deceptive – it does not cover the complexities of the proposed changes as presented in the 185-page Word document version of the Draft Master Plan. We need to get the planning right for this valuable public asset. The period allowed by the Harbour Trust for consultation is indecently hasty, the community has only weeks to assess and respond to the complex report. Once this process closes on 18 April 2023, the Harbour Trust will implement its final Master Plan without recourse. You and other members of the community will not be able to comment on this Master Plan further. Questions unanswered: Where are the details for the proposed redevelopment of the Middle Head Oval, particularly the demolition of the existing pavilion and construction of a new pavilion in a heritage precinct?
Why are they demolishing the guardhouse to the military village and, in doing so, closing down Middle Head Café, which provides a significant public benefit?
How does the Harbour Trust’s Draft Master Plan respect the natural, indigenous and military heritage of Middle Head?
What will be the impact on the local community of Harbour Trust’s plans to activate Middle Head with proposed events of up to 2000 people a day as late as 10 pm, with some events running three days?
How will the events affect traffic volumes and local roads, already under pressure from beach-goers and Zoo visitors?
The Trust’s consultation process is flawed and rushed. The community deserves the opportunity to review and respond to a complete and detailed Middle Head Master Plan. We urge you to attend our public meeting to find out more about the Draft Master Plan. Yours in support of public lands,
Jill L'Estrange
President
Headland Preservation Group
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