PlanningAlerts

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1. I'd like to express my concerns about DA-2019/157

   I'm a business owner at 10-14 Wentworth Street (Universal Supplements,directly across the street). I've poured a lot of time, money and energy into rejuvenating this Northern end of the street.

   It has taken me 3 years and and incredible amount of marketing and advertising dollars to bring customers to this street that is struggling, but on the edge of a turn around, I finally have something that its making profit.

   People are already afraid to come here because of Port Kembla's dark reputation of the past. Although I understand the need for such facilities, I don't believe the centre of a family friendly shopping village we are so desperately trying to save is the best place.

   Below are just some of my concerns,

   -I do not believe this facility will be able to abide by The Smoke-free Environment Act 2000.
   Smoking is banned in enclosed areas of public places in NSW. Smoking is banned within 4 metres of a pedestrian entrance to or exit from a public building in NSW. The building and it surrounds have no space which could legally be used as a smoking area for its clientele who are largely smokers.

   -Increase in public fear of the area. It has taken a lot of my time and money to build confidence in the community that Port Kembla is a safe place to come and shop. The dishevelled appearance of the few working girls that still frequent the street are enough to scare customers and I have already lost many because of this. This facility would far worsen the situation.

   -Solidifies the areas poor image and reputation. I’ve put close to $50,000 of my own money into the new shop front and signage at 10-14 Wentworth street because I believe in this town. Bringing this type of establishment to the main shopping strip where we are trying to encourage people and families is surely of detriment.

   -There is not adequate parking for such a facility. We have worked hard to build businesses in this area. It has taken me three years to build my business to a point where people are making the trip to come and see me, but parking is already an issue. If the users of this centre are taking up these spaces we will lose legitimate customers.

   -Increase in Public Nuisance Offences. We've seen this all before in Port Kembla, from the working girls to the drug effected. This includes behaviour that's offensive, disorderly, threatening, violent or what they're doing interferes with other people's moving through, or peacefully being in and enjoying a public place. We're only just getting on top of this problem here as it stands.

   If this development goes through I will surely have to close down and relocate, leaving yet another derelict frontage on a street that has made leaps and bounds in the right direction. I strongly urge you not to approve this application.

2. Darcy House is a safe place to come to for those in need. For some the meal they receive there could be their only substantial meal of the day. Its a mini community of people who rely on the staff to assist them in their lives. They do not come to annoy others they are just going about their business. It would be a shame for such pettiness to affect this move.

3. Personally I can't see the problem with the Darcy House initiative, people in need are part of our community and need all the support they can get. Local businesses in Port opposed should look to the Wayside Chapel in Kings Cross which is right in the middle of a busy shopping precinct ! We should be encouraging diversity in our communities, this benefits all of us.

4. Wayside Chapel has been in Kings Cross since the 70's, it's thriving there, and a lovely community of caring people, including the Prime Minister and Indira Nadoo!!

5. Feeding and clothing the needy is an essential service in our society which Darcy House has been providing for many years without having raised concerns in the Port community - its new location on Wentworth Street should prove no different.

6. Whilst I don't live in Pt Kembla, I make deliveries to Darcy House weekly. I have found clients to be respectful and helpful. The staff are amazing and have a heart for those in need.
   Homelessness is a part of a national difficult and Darcy House are doing their best to fill the needs for those in the area.
   The greatest gift we can give those in need is respect, providing them with a meal, a shower and some clothing all things that are a necessity not a luxury .
   Instead of us complaining about difficulties, perhaps we can come up with ideas that encourage and help. We as a community should be engaged and sharing in the possible solutions.
   

7. The current location is on my daily dog walking route and I have therefore interacted with many people who use the service. They have always been friendly and polite and I have never felt threatened or uncomfortable. I'm grateful that the community has a facility that helps those that have fallen on tough times and would happily see it in the proposed location so as to allow the services to grow and better serve those who need assistance.

8. I believe the Darcy House relocation is important for the Port Kembla area and its community. Darcy House is an essential support service for many people who are on the margins of our community and a safe place for them is important. I don't see any reasonable justification why such a place should be confined to the margins of our community. Research and evidence suggests that including people in the community is the key determinant in allowing them to address their needs and improve their quality of life and because of this situating such a service in the soon to be thriving hub of Port Kembla is important. Many of the people who access Darcy House live close to or on Wentworth Street and will continue to do so regardless of the location of Darcy House, and i also know that the vast majority purchase from local businesses and support the local economy. WCC has to handle the gentrification of Port Kembla well and not further exclude people who have resided in Port Kembla and consider it their home. There are many "trendy" examples (especially Fitzroy in Melbourne) where urban renewal has occurred without ostracising, stigmatising or excluding existing community members and i believe this actually adds to the appeal and strength of said areas.

9. I know that the work of Darcy House makes a positive difference in the lives of very marginalised and vulnerable people. To disallow the relocation would be to shun human beings because they are perceived to be 'different'. That would be a shameful thing to do. We need to work at becoming a truly inclusive community. We should be supporting Darcy House and the work it does.

10. It worked well where it is, i dont think the move will go well as it will change the dynamic at that end if the street. Its not the daytime apperances and problems Im worried about either... just talking from experience its the extended network that circle the block out of view of mainstreet that are the problem.

11. The people that Darcy House serve are part of the colour that is making Port Kembla an attractive destination for visitors and new residents. It would be a mistake to try to “sanitise” the precinct by precluding them.

12. I have worked for a local cafe delivering leftover food to Darcy House, it's such a great service, and sadly the needs of this disadvantaged group of people is growing in our community. With government funding being reduced year by year, we rely on NGO's such as Baptistcare to take this role on, please support it as you never know when someone you care about might cross that fine line between be ok and struggling!

13. Darcy House is an important part of the Port Kembla community. Improving their presence and facilities to a more appropriate place is logical. Wentworth Street needs as much passing trade and community involvement as possible. How wonderful it will be to see this valuable service moved to a better position in Port Kembla!

14. Darcy House undeniably does great work and some concerns like parking for overall planning should be considered carefully and concerns about the effect on rejuvenating the area should be considered however, the ones obvious to me are exisiting issues and the current situation for Port isn’t as desired for residents and business owners. I think the more business (and welfare) activity the better. As such I think the positive benefits outweigh the risk of nothing changing for Port. Also people in need aren’t all a negative influence on the area and many may transitition to regular paying customers for local businesses..

15. Darcy House provides care for those in need in our community. As such, we as fellow human beings should be supporting them and the good work they do.

16. Darcy House is a vital, wonderful organisation that I fully support. The application to relocate the service to Wentworth St I believe is a positive move.Wentworth St needs people and conversations to revitalise it, to complement the money spent on the aesthetic aspect in the shopfronts. It needs a diverse community of many voices, it needs soul and vibrancy. I believe the community of Darcy House can provide this, it will contribute in a postive way, it can be the hub the town needs .

17. Places like Darcy House are very important in our society. They provide a safe environment for people to attend so they can access food, companionship, education and shelter.
    Having a place like Darcy House can make a very big difference in the lives of people who may need it short or long term.

18. Port Kembla without the people is nothing. These people are part of Port Kembla's soul. That soul was there long before you decided to set up shop. I understand you put a lot into your business, but you moved into a town Darcy House and these human beings were already a huge part of. You cannot ask that they stop being a part of the town you chose to move your business to just because it would suit you better. They deserve to be there too. They are human beings. Not a problem needing moving away or hiding. Port Kembla doesn't need to be gentrified. It needs to be celebrated. If it isn't the town for you, warts an all, that's something you need to address within and for yourself. You dont need to change Port to suit you, nor do you have the right to.

19. The staff and volunteers at Darcy house work really hard to create a safe and supportive environment for the vulnerable and disadvantaged in the community. we as a community need to support one another not shame and judge. Darcy house deserves a better building and place in the area.

20. I believe Darcy House should be allowed to move to Wentworth St and I write this comment in support of that position. As cost of living expenses push more and more people to the financial margins of society, services such as Darcy House ensure dignity and respect and compassion for the scope of human experience. These services provide heart within a purely economic narrative. To look to examples in which gentrification and commercial interests remain cognisant of the environment in which they exist, the Wayside Chapel in Kings Cross and The Exodus Foundation in Ashfield exemplary examples. If a person is treated with respect they will respond in kind, and this is further so for those on societys’ margins, who are generally treated with contempt and fear. I have worked at Darcy House previously and can attest to the humanity of the clients and their appreciation of the service. I will finish this submission on a very personal note, I left home at 14 and was homeless on the streets of Kings Cross, I am currently a 2nd year Law Student at the University of Wollongong. It was the support of services such as Darcy House that have allowed me to achieve this. I thank you for taking the time to read this submission.

21. Darcy House is nothing but a positive force for change. We should be protecting these kinds of facilities rather than trying to shut them down.

22. I support the move to the new purpose built centre. It is within a kilometre of the railway station so it will be well situated. It is run by a professional organisation giving people another chance to move forward in their lives and contributes to the achievements of Wollongong City Council 2022 Objectives, providing safety to all in the community. I frequent Darcy House every few weeks for business purposes, and the staff there do a an amazing job of supporting members of the community who are not so well off and require the support of the many services that Darcy House offers. The services just to name a few include a wholesome freshly cooked meal daily, washing clothes, legal aid and other social services. However, the current premise has outgrown their needs and makes it difficult to provide these supports efficiency. Port Kembla is fortunate to have Baptist Care support their community and services like this actually help prevent crime and homelessness. Port Kembla is undertaking change, building a strong community focus, with the assistance of Council through Environmental Design Principles and Baptist Care’s Darcy House is contributing strongly to achieve this.
    When I visit the Centre, the people who access the service are always polite, they make sure I feel welcome, and I know they appreciate the support they receive.
    Darcy House also employs members of the local community - making a real difference in people’s lives.
    As a member of the Port Kembla business community I support the application to the new premises and view it as an opportunity for area growth, and I hope that Wollongong City Council will see that inclusion and support into mainstream is essential for the individuals who access Darcy House and to the continued success of the Centre.

23. I am from a multicultural background and have lived in Port Kembla for 40+ years within a short walking distance from the main street. I have no concerns regarding safety when accessing the local chemist, post office or any other stores. I regularly go walking with my friends early hours of the morning and after business hours are closed I do not fear for my safety. I fully support the relocation of Darcy House as this will benefit greatly to many of the local disadvantaged multicultural aging group.

24. I fully support the relocation of Darcy House to Wentworth St. I feel that the essential & valuable services provided by Darcy House are much needed in our community, and need to continue.

25. I am supportive of Darcy House’s move to the new location in Wentworth Street, Port Kembla. I completed a student placement at Darcy House and throughout my time there, I found the individuals who utilise the services that Darcy House provides to be polite, easy going and always grateful to access support for their needs.
    It is my observation that the vulnerable people who access support from Darcy House are highly unlikely to create a disturbance an area surrounding the organisation which provides them with their needs. In fact, they often hold great respect for such locations. The idea that there will be an increase in public nuisance offenses if the drop-in centre were to move is discriminatory against people who are experiencing poverty and stigmatises them as violent, aggressive, drug users. This is not accurate. Knowing these individuals in a professional manner from my time there, I can say with certainty that the vast majority of them are not violent or offensive and are just hoping to get through the day with shower and a hot meal. They quite often fulfil their needs at the centre and move on.
    It is my understanding that the clientele who frequent the street have been there for quite a long time, well before the there were attempts to freshen up the area with shop fronts and signage. This is common knowledge around the Illawarra and to place a business on a street which has previously been known to host what some might consider ‘unsavoury’ individuals, and then make a complaint about it is incredibly ridiculous and uninsightful.
    The types of individuals who attend Darcy House are vulnerable members of our community who need to be supported and raised up, not placed in a position to be stigmatised, slandered and shamed. Darcy House workers work incredibly hard to build their clients levels of resilience, provide them with basic essentials that many people take for granted and the coordinate support with many other services and go to extreme lengths just to get people a roof over people’s heads.
    I urge those who are against this to spend some time at Darcy House or a similar service and get to know the stories of the individuals who attend. Homeless can be just an illness or injury away from affecting anyone.

26. The people who attend Darcy House are port kembla!! They love Port just as much as the next person.
    Darcy house is a safe social environment, and without a doubt I'm sure if issues do arise the workers/volunteers at Darcy house will be able to work with the community and clients to ensure everyone can enjoy port kembla together.
    All types of people can come in and enjoy what Darcy house can offer, even the shop owners in main street - maybe building a friendship or even getting to know more people around port kembla they will understand they mean no Ill intent and just want to enjoy there day in beautiful port kembla.

27. I fully support Darcy House's application to operate their service from the main street in Port Kembla.
    I'm in a unique position, as the President of the Port Kembla Chamber of Commerce, & also a former Caseworker at Darcy.
    During the past 4 years I've been very involved with the Business Chamber, as well as the wider Port community. During that time I lived on Wentworth St., as well as ran a successful business office there.
    I share the same perspective that the owners of the much-loved Port Kebabs & Pizza have expressed many times - that Port is an inclusive place, where everyone can belong.
    Businesses have an amazing opportunity in Port, to offer high quality products/services that bring people in to the town. Ritchie Group are a fantastic example of doing just that. Troy Ritchie has worked hard & created an award winning accounting business on Wentworth St., where his customers are so happy with what his team offers, that most of their new business comes through word of mouth referrals. This is in spite of Port's stigma, the working girls, or any other external factors.
    My advice to Wentworth St. businesses is
    'build it & they will come'.
    The support that Darcy House offers is very much needed on the main street, & I believe that it will actually help improve some of the current challenging 'street behaviour' that business owners have been dealing with for some time. Darcy is run by caring professionals who are specialists in realities that local business owners are ill-equipped to address, & shouldn't have to. I think Darcy House's track record proves that it would help create a level of safety & stability to an area that has long struggled with extremes.
    Their service will also compliment the mens hostel that Anglicare will be opening next to it in the near future.
    It's worth noting that other services, such as Legal Aid (& many more) operate out of Darcy as well, which would generate a surge in daily foot traffic, with community workers, & regular meetings, etc, which is what the retail businesses are desperately needing.
    Finally, I'd like to point out that the clientele that Darcy helps is already frequenting Wentworth St., & has done for a very long time. Ironically, they make up a significant part of the existing foot traffic, buying goods from local businesses!
    There won't be an overwhelmong 'horde of undesirables', like those imagined - people who will "destroy our businesses".
    I encourage us to move away from a 'them' & 'us', fear-based mentality.
    Port belongs to all of us.
    King regards,
    Melinda Shobrook
    President
    Port Kembla Chamber of Commerce

28. I see both sides here but how many of these people live in the vacinity of this area easy for them to point out and say it should be able to move there but try living in the surrounding area worrying about whos about and what there going to do ok not all are bad people but some of them are its bad enough we still see a number of the girls hanging around on the street but it will only get worse

29. As a previous worker at Darcy House I feel Darcy House will function in a proper manner should it move. People attend the centre for a meal, shower and company. It provides a sense of belonging and the clients there when I worked there were always respectful. It is a great caring service

30. I couldn’t agree more with the positive comments above. Darcy House does a fantastic job of assisting vulnerable community members. To exclude these people from the town centre would imply that they are somehow undeserving. Quite frankly, that is just disrespectful. In a time and a world filled with so much hatred and exclusion, we should be trying our hardest to create supportive environments and mutual respect. I fully support the application to relocate Darcy House to Wentworth Street.

31. Darcy House clients are some of the most vulnerable, stigmatized and disadvantaged members of our community. This is their town just as much as it is yours. How can you exclude and make members of our community feel uncomfortable in their own home-town and street, just so you can make a buck at the expense of their well-being. It doesn't make any sense to me especially when you consider the fact that these business owners had to be aware of the risks of opening up a shop in Port, considering Port's history, and if they weren't, surely they at least questioned why the rent was so cheap?

    Business owners are often attracted to Wentworth street for cheap rent, not because they reside in Port or because of their revitalization plan and nor is it because of the plethora of customers marching up and down Wentworth Street. The rent wouldn't be cheap if there were no working girls, no notoriety, no drugs and guess what? If Wentworth street actually had any consistent stream of customers or foot-traffic, the rent would go up and most of you would probably leave immediately. No?

    Unfortunately we can not pick and choose who resides in our community and we certainly can't invade another community and pick and choose who we want to keep. Just like the locals who have lived here for 50 plus years can't pick and choose who moves into their local shops, you can't pick and choose who you want in your street, especially if they are vulnerable and disadvantaged.

    Darcy House saved my life and I don't know where I would be without Darcy House. It is a very special place and in my 10 years as a client, I have never witnessed a situation get out of hand because all the other clients attending Darcy House respect and appreciate the workers, the venue and the work they do for us.

32. Darcy House should be part of the Port Kembla main street.They are a professional, high quality service of staff and volunteers providing what is needed to many members of the community.All members of the Port Kembla community have a right to access services and enjoy the many good changes that are occurring in the area.I have always admired Port Kembla as a strong and respectful community. This will be the platform for the change you are seeking to a vibrant main street.
    I do not live in Port Kembla but support businesses there.I will definitely not shop in the main street if it is not inclusive and becomes another 'sanitised' shopping precinct.
    Darcy House does a wonderful job of supporting members of the community who are in need and I fully support their application.

33. I have worked for a local cafe delivering leftover food to Darcy House, it's such a great service, and sadly the needs of this disadvantaged group of people is growing in our community. With government funding being reduced year by year, we rely on NGO's such as Baptistcare to take this role on, please support it as you never know when someone you care about might cross that fine line between be ok and struggling!

34. I support the Darcy House move to Wentworth st Port Kembla for many reasons. The people who attend Darcy house do so to access services such as a meal, case management, help with housing issues, legal aid and help to reduce or quit smoking. Many of the people attending the service live in the area, so not addressing these issues will not make the issues dissapear and nor will the people who use the services become less visible.
    The current premise is too small for the large amount of people who need Darcy house help. So the move to the new premise will enable staff to perform their difficult job better and a larger building will be nicer for the people who attend. (better kitchen, better ambiance and people who access the service (many who are under stress already) will feel better.
    Over the years i have worked with Darcy house i have seen people come for help and get back on their feet and then giving back by volunteering at Darcy House. This small observation is evidence that the program helps people, which is a good thing.
    As a society we need to be more compassionate about those less fortunate and that is the spirit of Darcy House.

35. Please allow Darcy House to move to the new location.
    “More than ever should we be humble and patient, charitable and forgiving.”
    “Do not be afraid. Love one another, bear with one another, and let charity guide you in all your life.”
    “Reject no one. You never know what grace can do.”
    “Never see a need without doing something about it.”

    St. Mary of the Cross MacKillop

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