More than 400 Riverwood residents have signed a petition opposing State Government plans to bring an additional 8000 residents into the suburb.
Banks MP David Coleman presented the petition to the Department of Community Services late last month.
The Riverwood Plan being proposed by NSW Communities Plus under DOCs would see the construction of an additional 5000 apartments bringing another 8000 residents to the suburb.
The first stage of redevelopment around the Washington Avenue area of north Riverwood is nearing completion and is a mix of social and private housing.
Under the plans another 30 hectares of Riverwood will be redeveloped. The project is classed as a State Significant Precinct (SSP).
The petition was the result of a forum hosted by Mr Coleman on January 31 and attended by more than 100 residents to discuss community concerns about the planned development.
“The proposal, drafted by the NSW Department of Family and Community Services, would see a huge increase in Riverwood’s population,” Mr Coleman said.
“The area which is the subject of the proposal would see an increase of 8,000 residents.
“I am strongly opposed to this plan, which would change the character of Riverwood forever. Many residents have raised their strong concerns with me in recent weeks,” Mr Coleman said.
“I have contacted the NSW Government to pass on the strong opposition of the Riverwood community,” Mr Coleman said. “This proposal is completely wrong for our area.
“The NSW Department of Family and Community Housing needs to listen to our community and go back to the drawing board.”
