We, the undersigned residents and community members, respectfully submit this petition to express our strong opposition to the proposed construction of a service station at 100 & 102-104 Glynburn Rd Hectorville 5073. Application ID 25026598

Our concerns relate to several significant impacts this development would have on the surrounding residential community. The proposal would generate a high level of off-site impact, which is inconsistent with the DO 1 Suburban Business Zone requirement for developments to maintain a low level of off-site impact.

1.      Increased Traffic and Safety Risks/ High traffic turnover
The addition of a service station at this location will substantially increase vehicle traffic, including heavy vehicles, fuel tankers, store suppliers, bin pickup, gas deliveries as well as frequent 24-hour customer traffic associated with a drive-through operation. This raises serious concerns regarding road congestion, pedestrian safety, and the safety of children, cyclists, and local residents who regularly use the surrounding streets. 

Pedestrians are currently unable to cross Glynburn Road safely and Reid Avenue also is banked up with cars not being able to safely turn left and right at the same time causing drivers to become frustrated, impatient and unsafe driving behaviour. It is likely that Pierson Street, Reid Avenue, Hectorville Road and other surrounding residential streets will become thoroughfares for those trying to access or egress the service station.

It is also very close to the intersection of Davis Road, Glynde which currently is extremely dangerous with accidents and near misses occurring on a daily basis. The flow of traffic coming from Davis Road onto Glynburn Road in a Southerly direction adds to the already dangerous situation where multiple intersections meet in very close proximity of each other. Children often frequent the gelati shop on the corner of Glynburn and Davis Road which adds further element of safety risk.

2.      Drive through

The proposed 24-hour drive-through will result in a range of adverse impacts on surrounding residents. These include ongoing noise generated by the speaker box and customers, particularly during night-time hours when background noise levels are lower and disturbances are more noticeable. In addition, the idling of vehicles will contribute to a constant source of engine noise in close proximity to residential properties. The drive-through is also expected to generate continuous vehicle movements, contributing to increased traffic and congestion on nearby roads. Furthermore, headlights from vehicles exiting the site via Reid Avenue, as well as those entering and queuing within the drive-through, are likely to shine directly into neighbouring properties, resulting in light intrusion and a significant impact on residential amenity.

3.      24 hour trading

The proposed 24 hour trading will significantly impact the surrounding neighbourhood as it does not provide any reprieve to the residents again illustrating that this is a high level off site impact development and not in accordance with the planning regulations of this Zone. A 24 hour trading period is not appropriate next to housing.

4. Noise Pollution
The proposed service station will operate 24 hours a day, generating constant noise from vehicles, deliveries, refrigeration units, car doors, and customer activity. This will negatively impact the peace and quiet currently enjoyed by nearby residents, especially at night. The drive through speaker box as well as music/advertisements playing over speakers will be extremely intrusive and disruptive.

5. Lighting Pollution
Service stations require bright overhead lighting for safety and security purposes. Such lighting can create light pollution that affects nearby homes, disrupting sleep patterns and diminishing residents' quality of life. This will be evident in the number of residents that will be facing the extremely high canopy of 6.3m which is substantially higher than other petrol stations and will also spill light.

6. Impact on Residential Amenity and Property Values
The presence of a commercial fuel station in close proximity to residential homes may negatively affect the character of the neighbourhood and potentially impact property values.

7. Canopy height
The proposed canopy height of 6.3m is significantly greater than that of other service stations and will be highly visible from neighbouring residential properties. This bulk and scale are considered visually intrusive and out of character with the existing streetscape.

Rather than contributing positively to the appearance of the area, the development is likely to detract from the visual amenity of the neighbourhood. It does not enhance or beautify the streetscape, nor does it support a cohesive, residential character or a sense of a homely environment for nearby residents that have to look at it daily from their yards.

8. Environmental Concerns
Service stations involve fuel storage and potential risks of spills, leaks, and emissions that may pose environmental risks to soil, groundwater, and surrounding areas. There is evidence that living in close proximity to a petrol station can lead to developmental issues in children and cancer and illness in adults. In addition, the bin storage unit is screened off, however, the rodents and smell will adversely affect neighbouring properties. 

For these reasons, we respectfully request that the council reject the proposed development application and prioritize the wellbeing, safety, and liveability of the local community.

We urge the council to consider the significant concerns of residents and protect the character and safety of our neighbourhood.

Sincerely,
The Undersigned Residents and Community Members