A group of Kingsgrove homeowners has been devastated by a council move to rezone their properties so they can be acquired to expand a public reserve.
Owners of the six homes in Monaro Avenue, which back on to Peter Low Reserve, condemned Georges River Council for making the move without warning and "under the cover of the coronavirus pandemic".
Social distancing restrictions have stopped the homeowners and other neighbours meeting to co-ordinate opposition to the proposed rezoning, which is included in the council's new draft local environmental plan (LEP).
The exhibition period was to have ended on May 15, but, late on Friday, an extension until May 31 was announced .
At present, the triangular reserve is entered through two paths, and the council is seeking to widen the access while adding to the green space.
An online petition to stop the proposal likened the council action to the compulsory acquisition in the movie The Castle.
Some of the affected residents have lived in their homes for decades. In one case, extensive modifications have been made to a home to cater for a family member with a disability.
Rob and Barbara, who settled in Monaro Avenue 39 years ago, were shocked to receive the council letter, dated April 2, but delivered on April 22.
"We knew the council was looking for extra green space in the area, but we didn't think for a moment they would want to take our home," Rob said.
"When we moved here, the park was great for our young children and it's the same for our grandchildren.
"We love the open outlook. None of us wants to move."
Rob said there was no consultation about the merits of this proposal with any of the six property owners or other residents in the street who would also be affected by more traffic and other impacts.
Bernie, who is a member of a neighbourhood action group, said: "To be told that your home will be rezoned and that council can then compulsorily acquire it, and only be given three weeks to respond, is totally unfair".
"All this has happened at a time when we couldn't even visit one another to discuss the situation."
Last month, Kogarah MP Chris Minns said the coronavirus lockdown was locking out many Georges River residents from having their say on the draft LEP.
The draft LEP details for future land-use zoning, building heights, heritage and landscaping requirements. It will replace the LEPs of the former Kogarah and Hurstville council areas.
A respond from the council, sought by the Leader, is awaited.
