Residents Push Back on Childcare Proposal
Residents in Bayswater have lodged objections to Planning Application P/2025/6430. The proposal seeks to build a childcare centre at 21–23 Edinburgh Road.
The development would replace an existing single-storey home with a purpose-built facility. However, community members argue the project would overwhelm a quiet residential court. They also claim the area lacks infrastructure to support the inevitable increased activity.
Single Access Road Raises Major Concerns
Firstly, objectors highlight The Haven as the only access point to the site. This creates a single entry and exit for all traffic movements.
Moreover, residents warn congestion would intensify during peak childcare periods. They argue emergency vehicle access could be delayed or blocked. These concerns align with earlier planning scrutiny of the same location.
Traffic and Safety Risks Flagged
In addition, residents point to the scale of the proposed centre. Plans show capacity onsite for up to 108 children and 19 staff.
Peak drop-off and pick-up periods are expected between 8–9am and 3–4pm. Consequently, locals fear sharp increases in traffic volumes during already busy times. They also warn nearby school traffic would overlap with these peaks.
As a result, residents believe pedestrian and cyclist safety would decline.
Pressure on Parking and Local Roads
Furthermore, the proposal includes 25 on-site car spaces plus one accessible bay.
Despite this, residents say surrounding streets already struggle with parking demand. Recent townhouse developments have reduced available on-street space.
Therefore, locals argue overflow parking and unsafe manoeuvres would increase. They claim narrow streets already function as informal single-lane roads.
Concerns for Vulnerable Community Members
Importantly, the site sits near key community facilities. These include a primary school and nearby health services.
Therefore, vulnerable groups already rely on safe and predictable traffic conditions. Residents argue additional congestion would heighten risks for children and elderly residents. They also raise concerns about ambulance and service vehicle access.
Construction and Structural Impact Fears
Meanwhile, the development includes basement car parking beneath the building. This requires excavation works across the site.
Locals warn this could impact nearby properties. They reference previous construction activity in the street that caused cracking. Thus, fears remain about vibration, noise, and long-term structural damage.
Overdevelopment and Amenity Impacts raised
Additionally, residents argue the project represents overdevelopment within a residential zone. The site sits within a Neighbourhood Residential Zone, which aims to preserve low-scale character. However, the childcare centre would operate from 6:30am to 6:00pm daily. As a result, residents expect increased noise, activity, and disruption.
They say this would alter the quiet character of the court.
Previous Refusal adds Weight to Objections
Notably, a similar childcare proposal for the site was previously refused. That decision was upheld at VCAT, with traffic concerns at the intersection identified as critical. Residents argue conditions have not improved enough to justify approval.
They also claim additional development has increased existing pressures.
Call for Council to Refuse Application
Ultimately, objectors argue the proposal fails on multiple fronts. They cite traffic, safety, parking, and neighbourhood character concerns. It is for these reasons that residents have urged Knox City Council to reject the application.
The final decision now rests with planners and councillors.
