High-profile Brisbane businesswoman Sarina Russo has been given planning permission to build a unit block at twice the allowable height in the city’s inner south. Russo, one of the richest women in Australia with an estimated $267 million in 2022, last year lodged plans with Brisbane City Council to build a four-storey, 15-unit complex on Gladstone Road, Highgate Hill. The development, with frontage also on Chester Street, would consist of two three-bedroom, 10 two-bedroom and three one-bedroom units. The objections were varied and included rubbish collection, height and privacy concerns, but the most common complaints concerned on-street parking and increased traffic.
The development application attracted 15 public submissions, only three of which were in support of the plans. One objector expressed concerns about the traffic congestion that would result from the increased number of vehicles in the area, particularly at the intersection of Chester and Beaconsfield streets. Others raised issues about inadequate consideration given to the impact on street parking, which is already limited in the cul-de-sac with eight houses having no off-street parking. Despite the objections, Sarina Russo has had her plans for the over-height unit complex approved by the council.
Those in opposition to the development pointed out that the increased volume of traffic would pose a risk of accidents, especially during peak hours when people are traveling to and from work. The lack of consideration given to the effect on street parking was also a major concern for residents in the area, who felt that the additional pressure on an already limited resource would create further issues for those living in the vicinity. The objections raised by the public submissions indicate a high level of community concern regarding the impact of the unit block on the surrounding neighborhood.
Despite the objections, Brisbane City Council has approved Sarina Russo’s plans for the four-storey unit complex on Gladstone Road, Highgate Hill. This decision comes as a victory for Russo, who now has the green light to proceed with the construction of the development. The controversial nature of the approval reflects the tension between developers and residents in rapidly growing urban areas, where concerns about traffic congestion, parking availability, and privacy can clash with the desire for increased housing options and economic growth.
Sarina Russo’s success in obtaining planning permission for the over-height unit block highlights the challenges faced by developers in navigating the complex approval process for urban development projects. The objections raised by residents underscore the importance of community engagement and consultation in the planning process, as well as the need for local authorities to carefully consider the potential impact of new developments on existing infrastructure and quality of life in the area. As Brisbane continues to experience population growth and urbanization, the balance between development and community interests will remain a key issue for city officials and residents alike.
