MOD 2 - The Crescent overpass and active transport links

Dear Director,
I write regarding the proposed modifications to M4-M5 Link Mod 2The Crescent overpass and changes to pedestrian infrastructure in North Annandale, Rozelle and Rozelle Bay Foreshore area. My key concerns with this modification are:

1. Significantly reduced safety and increased risk for pedestrians & cyclists
2. The requirement to cross 5 sets of traffic lights at the Crescent to reach the foreshore from Annandale
3. The removal of direct active links to the foreshore cutting the community off from the proposed revitalisation including linking Light Rail and Bus stops to Ferry Wharf and Metro station
4. Urban & landscape design being built before a finalised Masterplan for the area
5. Traffic changes with not planning to deal with the consequences of these changes. e.g., no right turn from Johnston St into the Crescent will mean that the only right turns from Johnston St in Annandale will be Booth St which is already at a standstill in peak hours and a significant retail precinct at all hours, or Piper St which can only handle local traffic at best (and as the park is used by Annandale North Public School, to funnel any traffic past this area will be potentially lethal).

My underlying concerns with these changes stem from the process which lacks consultation and privileges vehicles over public transport, open space, community welfare and the environment. While I acknowledge that the interchange is now a necessity, these modifications suggest that all of the Government rhetoric about public transport, open space (an increasing necessity as housing density increases) and community welfare are subservient to the build considerations … it is difficult to escape the conclusion that the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment is simply accepting the proposed changes from the contractor to minimise build cost and thus increase profit on the project.

Given that there are no identifiable advantages flowing from this proposed modification except to the contractor it is difficult understand why the modifications have been accepted by the Department.

My submission is asking RMS and the Project team to:

1. Reinstate the Green link connecting the communities & the green space from Rozelle to Bicentennial Park
2. Relocate & redesign the pedestrian & cyclist connections that are safe continuous and direct.
3. Integrate active & direct connections to all active transport including the future Ferry Wharf and Metro West


As it is constantly affirmed by the Government and all its planning agencies, the future wellbeing and indeed growth of Sydney depends on an integrated strategy that balances the needs of individuals as pedestrians, cyclists, users of public transport and vehicles, upholds the value of community as a vibrant social entity and limits the dividing of such communities by intimidating, barren and destructive roadways, and continues to consult widely as to the best way to achieve this balance. This proposed modification appears to be the result of pressure from a contractor and even fails to demonstrate that it will improve traffic flow

I urge the Department to re-engage with all stake holders and review this proposed Modification before irreparable damage is done.

Yours sincerely,
John Oldmeadow

137 Johnston St Annandale
[email protected]

To whom it may concern, i’m Objecting to the green link to be cut from the foreshore to fit a car overpass into Roselle interchange. I have seen a picture of the proposed changes and I haven’t seen anything more uglier and bleak. How can anyone think a concrete plaza is acceptable. We leave in such a beautiful area which you are planning to distroy. NOT GOOD. UGULY UGULY UGULY. A better plan needs to be sought

Dear submission I would like you maintain the greenlink. It is an imporant link between the two parks unifying to area that have been divided by a project. I am very much a supporter of the Westconnex and we have be surrounded by construction trucks and changes but we have always thought that at the end we will end up with access to glebe. Please dont let the greenlink go it is important in keeping the community togther

Preserving the communities connection to the foreshore and the beautiful park and walkways is a must. It's why we moved to this area and it's necessity cannot be undervalued. This area is thriving and it's young families value safety and access to one of Sydney's most beautiful foreshore walks.

I live in Annandale, close to the Rozelle Bay Light Rail. I have a number of concerns with the proposed modification E120 and E121 (M4-M5 Interchange).
These modifications do not support the Conditions of Consent: Maintaining a GreenLink and Active Transport Links.
The Approved Greenlink was an effective link between Bicentennial park and Rail Yards, providing access to the Glebe Foreshore (together with a SAFE overpass from the nearby Light Rail). The modification seeks to relocate to the west side of the Crescent and it will become a ‘Concrete Link’ severely limiting access for all residents (Annandale and Bicentennial Park areas) to the Glebe Foreshore.
Consultation on Mods was limited to a very small number of Annandale residents (one street around main works), ignoring all Annandale, Rozelle and Glebe residents directly impacted. This is not good enough - it makes a farce of “community consultation”!
Traffic Intersection at Johnston St/Crescent at Annandale is now a 4 intersection 100M crossing (was a 15m single intersection). School children and residents are now at an elevated and unacceptable risk at this busy intersection.
I feel residents and pedestrians are paying the price for poor design. I understand and support good traffic flow today and in the future but believe we can have both. I understand that a community group - promoting a better design - has met with RMS to provide feedback.
The approved design outlines a need for contiguous/common border pedestrian/cycle pathways between Rozelle, the foreshore, open space and active transport infrastructure within the park. These conditions seems crucial to the safe movement and accessibility of residents and commuters.
Thank you for opportunity to provide feedback. I hope that you take note of the submissions and listen to the community.

The proposed changes to The Crescent , the widening of the road from 4 lanes to 6 , the removal of access between Annandale and bicentennial Park, plus the over bridge to the Rozelle green zone are unnecessary, contrary to public amenity, unsafe , direct traffic to suburban streets and contrary to the community agreement reached as part of the M4-M5 link planning approval.

Specifically:

1. The widening of the Crescent is unnecessary. Widening the Crescent to 6 lanes that feed to 2 or 4 is a waste of public money, and takes the traffic to suburban streets. It is a solution looking for a problem, not a solution to a problem.

2. It disconnects the current foot and cycle traffic that connects the community access to Bicentennial Park pathways around the inner west harbour. This proposal cuts the Johnston Street pedestrian traffic from the park and requires 4 sets of traffic crossing points as opposed to the current one set. This adds risk to pedestrian and cycle users.


3. The proposal also disconnects the Annandale community from the shopping precinct at The Tramsheds where most buy groceries, use the restaurants, and amenity. The removal of the right turn from Johnston Street to the Crescent directs traffic back into the suburb, onto already congested Booth Street to get from the Crescent end of Annandale to The Tramsheds.

4. Johnston Street has 3 primary schools and aged care facilities . This proposal directs more traffic onto Johnston Street making it considerable less safe for the foot traffic the schools and other community facilities generate. The M4-M5 rationale was taking traffic off suburban streets not adding to it.

5. The proposed plan is visually ugly. A concrete overpass , looking like a mini Cahill expressway is an artefact of the 1970’s, an eyesore, and contrary to the agreed greening of the railyards and surrounds.

6. Removal of trees as we debate global warming and reducing carbon footprint is public vandalism and irresponsible.

7. The light rail station and public bus services with stops on the Crescent generate considerable pedestrian traffic. The access to the public transport services is hindered by the proposed street widening and relocation of pedestrian crossings. Public transport access should be the priority not increasing car access.

8. The proposed changes are poorly thought out, reduce community amenity, direct traffic to suburban streets lifting safety risk, increase traffic pollution, disconnect a community from amenity. This is a waste of public money and will generate a poor community outcome.

I am opposed to the plan.

I object to the modification as it removes green space continuity which was originally committed to as part of the initial application. In the application this continuity was a cornerstone of design, used to obtain initial community support.

The modification is in conflict with the original proposal and other master planning in the area which seek to establish a continuous public foreshore access (inc green space) from the bays precinct to jacksons landing and beyond.

This modification does meet the publics expectations for a walkable connected city.

To whom it may concern,

To say that I am horrified at the details of this proposal is an understatement.

This plan completely ignores the conditions of consent given for this project and threatens to impose even more on the landscape and liveability of our local area.

I object to this proposal based on the following points:

1. Pedestrian access: Pedestrians walking from the Western side of Johnston Street will have to use four pedestrian crossings in order to reach Bicentennial Park. Absolutely ridiculous when there are other alternatives.

2. Destruction of trees: there is over 70 mature fig trees being removed. I call for a full Urban Design and Landscape Plan

3. Green link: the ONE redeeming feature of this WestConnex debacle was the green link which is now going to be removed. Once again, motorists are being placed ahead of cyclists and pedestrians.

This modification removes many of the favourable urban design features of the original proposal replacing them with a massive overpass. Not only an eyesore, but a total disregard to the health and wellbeing of the local community.

Please do not further pollute our beautiful foreshore and bring more trucks and traffic through our residential streets. The suburbs surrounding this interchange will suffer with more fumes and dust entering our yards and the numerous schools neighboring this change.

I wholeheartedly object to this planned modification of the M4-M5 Rozelle Interchange. The planned design has no thought for the active use of this area by those using other forms of transport besides a motor vehicle. The planned redesign takes no account for the use of this area by pedestrians and cyclists further marginalising those who wish to get some exercise and enjoy what the Bay Precinct has to offer. The intersection of Johnson St and the Crescent is proposed to go from a 15 metre crossing to one that involves crossing 6 lanes of very busy traffic. There is no thought for such people as children, parents with prams, or the elderly. I am in no doubt this proposal would see accidents involving the aforementioned and a higher likelihood of serious death or injury. The planned widening of the Crescent creates a significant barrier between the suburb and the foreshore and Bicentennial Park in a similar way that the Cahill Expressway does with the Sydney CBD and Circular Quay. It seems we have learnt nothing over the last 50 or so years since that monstrosity was constructed. Little thought about the impracticality of such a construction with engineers and accountants riding roughshod over the rest of the community in the name of expediency. The removal of the proposed GreenLink from the revised design is a travesty in the making. This GreenLink provided safe and reasonably easy access to the western side of City West Link. The proposed crossing is convoluted, harder to access, and an eyesore in the making. The proposed vehicle overpass is the most objectionable aspect of this redesign. Not only is it an eyesore, a mass of concrete that obscures views from the Rozelle Bay tram stop, but it will have an adverse impact on the heritage listed Rodney Monk mural on The Crescent. I note that this mural has been threatened previously by proposals to widen the road, but community opposition saw it saved from the wrecking ball. Some 40 years later, it is once again threatened with destruction. I believe the original design, while not perfect, was the optimal one for the area. It provided safe and easy access to the foreshore and the western side of City West Link, did not involve the construction of a concrete and visually unappealing overpass, and did not threaten the heritage listed mural. Surely there is a better alternative to the one proposed. One that provides for efficient movement of traffic, but one that minimises its impact on the rest of the community that actually live here and use this area for other reasons that a vehicular thoroughfare to get somewhere else.

please see attached

The overpass at the Crescent goes against previous proposals that are unobtrusive to the surrounding area. It will be unsightly and noisy, and nothing like what was portrayed when the project was first proposed

The proposed modification means that pedestrians from the Annandale side will no longer be able to access directly the proposed green space on the Rozelle side. The point of the green space was to make the Westconnex interchange still function as part of the local area. instead, the proposed change will decrease the heritage values of the area, remove even more of the existing trees in the area and make even less of the green space accessible to persons travelling by foot and by bike. It is incorrect to say that the proposed footbridge preserves this, as the bridge means persons using it exit at the light rail, a significant distance from the planned green space - fine if you are travelling by car or by bike, but not for children, strollers, persons who are handicapped. This modification is not appropriate.

Attention: Director, Transport Assessments Planning Services
Department of Planning, Industry and Environment
GPO Box 39
Sydney, NSW 2001

Application: SSI 7485

Dear Director,

I write regarding the proposed modification to M4-M5 Link, Mod 2 The Crescent overpass and changes to pedestrian infrastructure in North Annandale, Rozelle and Rozelle Bay Foreshore area. I object to these modifications as proposed.

I request RMS work with the community to explore alternate design options to the proposed new car overpass design and the changed pedestrian and cyclist links. I am seeking the reinstatement of the safe, direct access from the approved EIS GreenLink to create a continuous green open space connection from the Rozelle Rail yards and Annandale to the foreshore. The GreenLink was more than just a walk way - it put people central to the design, maximising safety, and providing much needed accessible open space for the community now and into the future Bays Precinct design.

I am requesting RMS put people back into the plan – we want you to reinstate your own vision as laid out in Transport for NSW Future Strategy 2056. Work with us to design a feasible option that brings the best elements from the approved EIS design into the modification.

My key concerns with the M4-M5 Modification are:
● The significantly reduced safety and increased risk for pedestrians and cyclists with removed access over The Crescent to Bicentennial Park and the increased traffic along Johnson Street.
● Being required to cross five sets of pedestrian lights at The Crescent as my option to reach the foreshore from Annandale or from Rozelle Bay light rail stop.
● Removal of direct active links to the foreshore, cutting the community off from the area and the proposed revitalisation of the entire Bays Precinct, including linking the Light Rail and Bus stops to a Ferry wharf and Metro station.
● Urban and landscape design that is being built before a finalised Masterplan for the area.
● Traffic changes that limit movements around the suburb and create further congestion in the local streets of Annandale, Forest Lodge, Glebe, Lilyfield and Rozelle with no planning to deal with these.

My submission is asking RMS and the Project Team to:
● Reinstate the GreenLink connecting communities and green open space from Rozelle to Bicentennial Park
● Relocate and design pedestrian and cyclist connections that are continuous, safe and direct.
● Design the modification infrastructure and active links in response to the character of the suburbs, the location of the foreshore and its potential future development.
● Provide pedestrian and cyclist paths that maximise people safety and do not force them onto busier streets, unsafe concrete plazas and caged walkways.
● Integrate active and direct connections to all active transport – including the future Metro West and Foreshore Ferry Wharf.

1. I have a disabled child. The previous interchange plan provided reasonable access for him to the foreshore parks. The new modification will make such access for him tortuous and effectively restricts his ability to enjoy the existing amenity of the neighbourhood.

2. The new overpass will impact the community, cutting it off from easy access to existing parks (and the new parkland touted as a benefit of the westconnex development when initial community consultation was sought). The original proposal provided this access.

3. An elevated car overpass will have significant visual impact and I fear will increase road noise for those living on the southern side of the area, including my family home.

I respectfully ask that the modification not proceed and the original plan proceed.

I am very disappointed to hear about the proposed changes to the Mod 2 - M4-M5 link. It will restrict access the green areas along the green foreshore and takes away the human element in the design in favour of vehicle traffic.
I am very concerned about the following
-Increased traffic along Johnson Street
-Restricted access from Johnson Street to the Glebe foreshore and Bicentennial Park. The introduction of 5 sets of traffic lights is unacceptable to access the foreshore. This will reduce access for locals and cut us off from a very important community asset.
-Traffic changes that will create congestion in Annandale and the surrounding suburbs with no planning to deal with the increase in traffic.

I am asking RMS and the project team to
-Reinstate the the GreenLink connecting communities and green open space from Rozelle to Bicentennial Park
-Relocate and design pedestrian and cyclist connections that are continuous, safe and direct.
-Design the modification infrastructure and active links in response to the character of the suburbs, the location of the foreshore and its potential future development.
-Provide pedestrians and cyclist paths that maximise peoples safety and do not force them onto busier streets, unsafe plazas and caged walkways. Let us maximise use of our green spaces.
-Integrate active and direct connections to all active transport including the future Metro West and Foreshore Ferry Wharf.

Stuart Ecob

In regards to the proposed modification of M4-M5 link mod 2 the Crescent overpass I attach a PDF noting my concerns. I add it appears that this amendment is being done hastily without concern for local pedestrians and cyclists.

I request that you redesign the overpass, greenlink and transport links. Please make it easier for those inner westies who prefer to get around on foot, bike and public transport. Please give us direct access to the foreshore that is surrounded by greenery. You are creating another Carhill expressway eyesore.

I object to the proposed modification to the project M4-M5, Mod 2 and request that the RMS work with the community to explore other options. My submission is set out below.

Application: SSI 7485
 
Dear Director Transport Assessments Planning Services,
 
I write regarding the proposed modification to M4-M5 Link, Mod 2 The Crescent overpass and changes to pedestrian infrastructure in North Annandale, Rozelle and Rozelle Bay Foreshore area.  

The “revision” of the approved design makes pedestrian and cyclist access to the foreshore even more difficult and dangerous than it is currently. The revision is also a broken promise made to the community for safer, easier access.
 
I request RMS work with the community to explore other design options to the proposed new car overpass design and the changed pedestrian and cyclist links.  I am seeking the reinstatement of the plan for safe, direct access from the approved EIS GreenLink creating a continuous green open space connection from the Rozelle Rail yards and Annandale to the foreshore.  The GreenLink was more than just a walk way - it put people central to the design, maximising safety, and providing much needed accessible open space for the community now and into the future Bays Precinct design.  
 
I am requesting RMS  put people back into the plan – we want you to reinstate your own vision as laid out in Transport for NSW Future Strategy 2056. Work with us to design a feasible option that brings the best elements from the approved EIS design into the modification.
 
My key concerns with the M4-M5 Modification are:
● The significantly reduced safety and increased risk for pedestrians and cyclists with removed access over The Crescent to Bicentennial Park and the increased traffic along Johnson Street. 
● Being required to cross five sets of pedestrian lights at The Crescent as my option to reach the foreshore from Annandale or from Rozelle Bay light rail stop.
● Removal of direct active links to the foreshore, cutting the community off from the area and the proposed revitalisation of the entire Bays Precinct, including linking the Light Rail and Bus stops to a Ferry wharf and Metro station.
● Urban and landscape design that is being built before a finalised Masterplan for the area.
● Traffic changes that limit movements around the suburb and create further congestion in the local streets of Annandale, Forest Lodge, Glebe, Lilyfield and Rozelle with no planning to deal with these.
 
My submission is asking RMS and the Project Team to:
● Reinstate the GreenLink connecting communities and green open space from Rozelle to Bicentennial Park
● Relocate and design pedestrian and cyclist connections that are continuous, safe and direct.
● Design the modification infrastructure and active links in response to the character of the suburbs, the location of the foreshore and it’s potential future development.
● Provide pedestrian and cyclist paths that maximise people safety and do not force them onto busier streets, unsafe concrete plazas and caged walkways.
● Integrate active and direct connections to all active transport – including the future Metro West and Foreshore Ferry Wharf.
 
Yours sincerely
 
Fran Moloney

I request RMS Work with the community to explore alternate design options to the proposed new car overpass designed and the changed pedestrian and cyclist links. I am seeking the reinstatement of the safe, direct access from the approved EIS GreenLink to create a continuous green open space connection from Rozelle Rail yards and Annandale to the foreshore. The GreenLink was more than just a walk way - it put people central to the design, maximising safety and providing much needed accessible open space for the community now and into the future Bays Precinct Design.
I am requesting RMS put people back into the plan - we want you to reinstate your own vision as laid out in Transport for NSW Future Strategy 2056. Work with us to design a feasible option that brings the best elements from the approved EIS design into modification.
My key concerns with the M4-M5 Modification are:
* Significantly reduced safety and increased risk for pedestrians and cyclists with removed access over The Crescent to Bicentennial Park and the increased traffic along Johnson Street.
* Being required to cross five sets of pedestrian lights at the Crescent as my option to reach the foreshore from Annandale. As a longstanding local resident that uses the access to the park on a daily basis to walk my dog, this is of particular concern.
* Removal of direct active links to the foreshore, cutting the community off from the area and the proposed revitalisation of the of the entire Bays Precinct, including linking the Light Rail and Bus stops to a ferry wharf and metro station.
* Urban and landscape design that is being built before a finalised Masterplan for the area.
* Traffic changes that limit movements around the suburb and create further congestion in the local streets of Annandale, Forest Lodge, Glebe, Lilyfield and Rozelle with no planning to deal with these.

My submission is asking RMS and the project team to:
* Reinstate the greenLink connecting communities and green open space from Rozelle to Bicentennial Park
* Relocate and design pedestrian and cyclist connections that are continuous, safe, and direct
* Design the modification infrastructure and active links in response to the character of the suburbs, the location of the foreshore and it's potential future development
* Provide pedestrian and cyclist paths that maximise people safety and do not force them onto busier streets, unsafe concrete plazas and caged walkways
* Integrate active and direct connections to all active transport - including the future Metro West and Foreshore Ferry Wharf.
Please listen to the concerns of the local community that will suffer most from the impact of these modifications.