ARNCLIFFE residents have welcomed a decision by Rockdale Council to reject a childcare centre.
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A development application had been submitted seeking permission for a childcare centre on Segenhoe Street for 50 children and nine staff.
In a fiery meeting on Wednesday, November 18, residents packed the public gallery to show their opposition.
The residents said it would cause traffic and parking mayhem as it was close to Arncliffe Public School and a Department of Education and Training office.
The application had already been to council twice before and been deferred for an information session and an on-site meeting.
At the meeting, centre owner Shiry Iskander urged councillors to make a decision.
"All the experts agree that this application complies," she said.
That statement was booed down by residents.
Speaking during the public forum, neighbour Penny Martin said the traffic was already horrendous.
"If you come during peak hour you can see that it's absolute mayhem," she said.
"We can't even leave our home sometimes, it's just gridlock.
"We need to think of the children's safety."
Neighbour Steven Maraca agreed, saying the process had put his family, some of whom are battling cancer, under added stress.
"We should be able to enjoy our home," he said.
"It isn't fair or reasonable."
The proposal was rejected in a motion put forward by Cr Andrew Tsounis and seconded by Cr Nicholas Mickovski.
The unanimous decision was met with a round of applause from the gallery.
Mr Maraca said he was happy with the result.
"I just hope in the future there's better planning so it doesn't come down to this."