North Sydney council has unanimously voted to explore selling a section of Edward Street to the elite private school Shore, sparking controversy among residents. The cash-strapped council hopes the sale could ease its financial woes, particularly the escalating costs of the North Sydney Olympic Pool redevelopment.
Shore, officially known as Sydney Church of England Grammar School, wants to acquire the part of Edward Street south of Lord Street to create an internal ring road with a turning circle. The school argues this would improve traffic flow and student safety during drop-off and pick-up by moving the current 'traffic snail' within its property.
North Sydney mayor Zoë Baker said the motion, passed on Monday night, authorises the council's chief executive to investigate the proposal and begin preliminary discussions with Shore. She acknowledged the council's fragile financial situation, noting that an 87% rate hike over two years was rejected in May. 'We are having to explore every opportunity,' Baker said.
The council's budget last month outlined plans to deliver $6m in savings or new revenue, including a review of its property portfolio. Shore has offered a $20,000 bond to cover investigation costs, including a land valuation. The school's principal, John Collier, said parents 'agitated' by the proposal were 'arguing against their own interests', and noted that while residents might lose four parking spots, the school would reduce demand by enhancing its own parking.
Baker amended the motion to reopen talks on a potential land swap, which could create a small public pocket park on the corner of Mount and Edward streets. She stressed that any sale would involve significant community consultation and take six to 12 months. 'Once they're sold, they're gone forever,' she warned, adding that the council is a 'custodian for the next generation'.
