Uni music will disturb peace, say Darlo locals

Some Darlington residents have raised objections to the application on the grounds that it is yet another way that the University is infringing on the amenities of their suburb. Many of the concerns relate to the impact that live bands will have upon the neighbourhood if they are allowed to play from 5pm until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays as stated in the DA.

“No reasonable person would expect nor want amplified music introduced into their neighbourhood, particularly during the hours proposed,” Darlington resident, John Berry, stated in a written objection to the Council.

Fellow resident and protestor, Patrick Maywood, is outraged at the apparent favouritism shown by Sydney Council toward the University. “I am a rate-paying long-term resident of the formerly peaceful, quiet and family-friendly village of Darlington, and am absolutely opposed to Sydney University’s attempt at destroying the peaceful and safe enjoyment of my home,” his statement to Council reads.

One question raised by the objectors was why the University has chosen a site with close proximity to a residential area when more isolated areas are available.

However, University spokesperson, Andrew Potter, was quick to dismiss the protests of what he perceives to be a minute portion of the neighbourhood.

Mr Potter stated that that the proposed activities outlined in the DA would only be a continuation of current events that have been held within the same area for the past 40 years. The Wentworth Building is the home of Sydney University Union and Hermann’s Bar, which is currently a place of live entertainment for students.

He also suggested that the DA is not about increasing the amount of noise that the University is allowed to create, but utilising the Union Plaza as a place for market stalls and other activities for students. It is also hoped that the public would utilise the site.

“This is not about doubling the activity – rather it is providing students with an alternative site on which to gather … which is in fact further away from most residential properties than the Wentworth building,” Mr Potter stated, adding that the current proposal had already been outlined in the original DA.

Council inspectors expressed their approval of the site in July, giving permission for the University to proceed. John Berry is still questioning the University’s argument that music played outside will not exceed existing levels. “How can they say they will be producing outdoors music and there not be increasing levels of noise?” he asked, wondering about the legalities and an apparent double standard of noise restrictions on private citizens that don’t appear to apply the University.

Despite the University’s attempts to invite the local community to take advantage of the new facilities, the outrage of Darlington residents stems from a greater fear of being squeezed out of existence.

Tensions will likely continue to boil as both parties await the State Government’s decision on the development of the North Eveleigh site, which was given initial approval earlier this year. Many expect Sydney University to have a major stake in the site. Some Darlington residents understand that this would be favourable over a purely profit-seeking private developer.

But the tenuous relationship of these neighbours might mean that any future DAs will be greeted by even fiercer opposition.

Source: South Sydney Herald September 2009 www.southsydneyherald.com.au