A couple's ambitious plan to transform a single house into three new multi-bedroom homes has been blocked by a single tree on the council nature strip, underscoring the tension between housing development and environmental regulations.
Decade-Long Dream Hits a Snag
Courtney Grose and her husband Daniel Smith purchased a corner property at Lockerly St and Longleat Rd in Elizabeth Vale, north Adelaide, a decade ago with the intention of rebuilding. After years of saving and planning, they aimed to demolish the existing home and construct three three-bedroom dwellings. However, last year, they encountered an unexpected obstacle: a red flowering gum tree on the council-controlled nature strip.
Recent amendments to South Australian planning laws mandated a 6.46-metre protection zone around the tree, effectively blocking driveway access for one of the proposed homes and rendering the redevelopment unfeasible.
Tree's Condition Questioned
An arborist report commissioned by the couple revealed that the tree is not indigenous to South Australia, does not serve as a critical habitat for native fauna, and is only in fair health. Despite these findings, the Playford Council remained firm on enforcing the protection zone.
Ms Grose expressed her frustration: 'I know a lot of people don't want to get rid of trees and I know we have to consider the shade it provides but I am surprised in an age where we are desperate for homes, that this is so difficult. We are putting up some pretty nice houses. They're going to be three-bedroom, two-bathroom and two living areas – they're quite nice homes so I'm surprised this is the reaction.'
Costly Bureaucratic Hurdles
The couple invested $5,000 in arborists and surveyors to prepare development applications for the council. They proposed alternative solutions, such as replacing the existing tree with two indigenous trees, but the council declined, citing state government tree protection laws.
The project's initial budget of $1.2 million, including the property purchase, was threatened by the delays and potential redesign costs. Fortunately, Ms Grose's background in interior architecture allowed her to create concept plans herself, saving on professional fees.
Revised Plans Approved
To avoid further bureaucratic losses, the couple amended their development to face the less desirable Longleat Road. The Playford Council approved the revised proposal but has mandated additional redesigns for one of the homes.
Council Mayor Glenn Docherty stated that the council is legally obligated to follow state government tree protection regulations, which aim to preserve urban greenery.
