Highgate Hill Residents Oppose 47 Unit Development Proposal

Urban planners argue that Highgate Hill is an ideal site for increased medium density housing in Brisbane, despite local homeowners expressing their discontent with a proposed 47-unit development on Westbourne Street.

Ben Hockley, a resident of Highgate Hill, is among those opposing the construction, labelling it "egregious" and highlighting concerns regarding the demolition of a significant derelict 1870s house alongside smaller adjacent buildings.

Although none of the properties qualify for state heritage protection, Mr Hockley insists they contribute to the neighbourhood's aesthetic appeal. He emphasises, "It's all about maintaining the streetscape; that's why we all moved here -- because we like the look of all the old houses."

Mr Hockley also raised concerns about increased traffic, noise pollution, and infringed privacy for current residents. He described the planned 60 car parks as insufficient and fears it would exacerbate competition for on-street parking.

University of Queensland urban planner Dorina Pojani voiced an opposing view, suggesting that inner-city Brisbane requires more medium-density apartments. Dr Pojani critiqued what she termed "selfish nimbyism," saying it hinders necessary development amidst urgent housing needs.

"Highgate Hill is an inner-city neighbourhood, and it's remarkable that it has remained so low density for as long as it has," Dr Pojani noted. "There might be a bit more inconvenience and traffic for existing residents, but that's a fair price to pay when we need more housing really badly in Brisbane."

Homeowner Nick Macmillan reiterated the inappropriateness of the medium-density proposal, stating that roads were already congested and that the suburb lacked sufficient infrastructure for a larger population.

"I'm not against development but Brisbane's one of the least densely populated cities in the world and council's plan seems to be to shoehorn as many people as possible into the Kurilpa Peninsula," he remarked.

Brisbane City Greens Councillor Trina Massey has expressed opposition to the development application as well, arguing that the four-storey apartment complex would not align with the amenity expectations of residents and would visually dominate the street.

"While increasing density in Highgate Hill is important, in a housing crisis we should not be demolishing affordable housing to build luxury apartments," Cr Massey stated.

Yes In My Backyard founder Natalie Rayment advocated for walkable inner-city apartments, citing the need to counter car-dependent urban sprawl, suggesting Highgate Hill is a suitable location for such developments.

"We've got to stop building only McMansions with four bedrooms and two car parks, and wonder why we can't get more young people into homes," Ms Rayment said.

The development proposal includes 10 one-bedroom units, 34 two-bedroom units, and three three-bedroom units. A spokesperson for Brisbane City Council mentioned that they are unable to comment on the matter while planning officers assess the application, which is subject to an impact assessment due to its height surpassing three storeys.