PLANS for a road connecting two housing estates in a 'quiet street' has raised alarm bells for a group of Gillieston Heights neighbours.
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The proposed interim road is part of a $9 million housing development plan which, if successful, will see the construction 155 dwellings at 457-463 Cessnock Road.
It is proposed the new estate will be connected with the Wallis Creek Estate via an interim road through Tangerine Street.
With access to this housing estate through a residential housing block, it is clear to us this would be a dangerous decision.
- Resident Garry Punia
A traffic impact statement said "once land to the east of the estate is developed a permanent access will connect with Aspen Drive".
But Tangerine Street residents say even an interim road could have disastrous ramifications for the existing and new housing estates.
Their concerns include traffic and pedestrian safety, parking as well as accessibility for emergency services.
Garry Punia bought in the quiet street of the Wallis Creek Estate for his family.
Now he fears for his family and all - existing and future - residents safety while awaiting the permanent road on Aspen Drive.
"Using a residential block as a private driveway will turn Tangerine Street into a mini motorway," Mr Punia said. "With access to this housing estate through a residential housing block, it is clear to us this would be a dangerous decision. They can connect it via the main road but not in the middle of houses. The plan to convert a residential block into a major thoroughfare would put children at risk and destroy the amenity of a brand new community.
"If Maitland Council allows this development to go ahead they will essentially be ploughing a major road through what we thought would be a backyard with swings and playgrounds. We just want the council to hear us."
But a Maitland City Council spokesperson said "the development application has been on public exhibition and is now in the early stage of assessment".
"During the assessment Council officers will be considering issues such as traffic, access and public interest along with the submissions received during the exhibition period," the spokesperson said.
"Once the assessment is complete the application will be put to Council for determination."
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