There is an application currently on display for 44 Essex Street, Epping. It involves the demolition of the current house, and building of a large modern building taking up most of the block.

Essex Street is part of the East Epping Heritage Conservation Area - a buffer deliberately set up to preserve the original streetscape of areas on the edge of the town centre. There are restrictions and responsibilities for owners in these areas yet we keep seeing speculative DAs like this that just ignore these conditions and think removing trees, original houses, landscaping and more is fine.

The Trust thinks this DA is too big, does not meet the HCA requirements, and contributes to the loss of yet more tree canopy in this area. The granny flat at the back would impact neighbouring properties. The DA (DA/31/2023) is on public exhibition until 13 Feb so please have a look at the plans - DA/31/2023 on the Councils' DA Tracker at https://onlineservices.cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au/ePathway/Prod/Web/Custom/... and then make a submission to council@cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au - include your name, address, email and the DA number - DA/31/2023.