An application by the Lugarno Progress Association to build a concert pavilion by Webb Dam in Evatt Park has caused an outcry from nearby residents.
The association has lodged the DA for the pavilion to be built on the site where Music in the Park concerts are held on a temporary stage each October.
But residents of nearby Linden Crescent, some who are also members of the association, are objecting to a permanent pavilion being built on the site and say there more suitable places for it to go in the park.
LGA president Ken Mason said it is the best spot for the proposed pavilion.
“It is a natural amphitheatrical situation with a beautiful hill and behind the stage is the backdrop of Webbs Dam.
“There is no other situation in the park that qualifies. There is nowhere else it can go.”
But Sandra Ridley said most of the residents of Linden Crescent object to the plan and feel it would be better located on the other side of the park near the amenities building.
“It’s in the wrong place and will destroy this peaceful part of the park,” she said.
“Safety of kids is also our main concern. People could go around behind the stage and no-one would see if a little child went into the water.
“The design and slant of the roof means any noise will be projected up to Linden Crescent
“We feel $135,000 is a lot of money for this. Why can’t they just use temporary stages as they have in the past. Why spent $135,000 to have this permanent, ugly thing for once-a-year concerts.
“It’s a beautiful park and we want to do what we can to protect it. There’s no need to have this thing here.”
Resident and association member Michael Spring said he is not objecting to the principle of a putting a stage in the park but the proposed location was just not a good idea.
“The park is divided in two. The southern end is used for sport and the northern end is the natural area. The 2012 Carols in the Park was in the southern end near the top car park and playing fields which was a good location.
“It’s true that the proposed stage is in a perfect amphitheatre. But it is an amphitheatre that contains a number of residential homes.”
Lynne Slattery, who has lived in Linden Crescent since 1997, said the area should remain for passive recreation.
“It’s just so tranquil and peaceful with a beautiful dam. We don’t need a 10.9m concrete structure.
Mrs Slattery said homes in Linden Crescent are approximately 64 metres from the proposed location of the pavilion and the sloping roof of its design will amplify the noise.
Concert wish: An artist's impression of the concert pavilion proposed for Evatt Park at Lugarno, with Webbs Dam in the background.
“It is in the worst part of Evatt Park.
“It is just the most beautiful area to go to and contemplate the trees and wildlife.
“Why don’t they build a pretty gazebo where kids could go and look at the ducks instead of this concrete monstrosity.”
Mr Mason defended the look of the pavilion.
“It is only 11m wide by 7m deep and 3.6m high, large enough to fit a concert band,” he said.
He also defended the cost. “$135,000 is an estimate. I would be surprised if it was anywhere near that.
“We have already had three events in the park on a temporary stage in the exact location we are proposing for the pavilion.
“There are a hard core of residents living adjacent to the park who are against it.
“It is a very tiny core of people.
“What we are proposing is a jewel for the park.
“It will be a great addition and a great shame if it doesn’t go ahead.”
The application is on exhibition until January 19.