A plan to transform Cumberland Country Golf course into a multi-million dollar housing development has divided locals – with some saying it will completely change the character of the neighbourhood.
Under the $160.3 million plans, the state significant development would redevelop parts of the Greystanes site for a seniors living village.
234 units would be provided across six independent living unit buildings, ranging from five- to seven-storeys, with a 38-bed care facility stretching across three-storeys.
If approved, it would also see the construction of a new three-storey golf clubhouse inclusive of a café, pro shop and function rooms, along with the reconfiguration of the 18-hole championship golf course.
The proposed transformation of the “ageing” facilities has drawn opposition from some locals, who fear the scale of the development could impact on the privacy and character of the surrounding community.
A club member and Greystanes resident said the six apartment blocks will look hideous and “totally out of place” in the neighbourhood.
“The developers state the building will blend in with the surrounding trees and be no higher than neighbouring trees, but that claim is window dressing, the buildings will be substantially taller than neighbouring trees and will prominently stand out for the entire neighbourhood to see,” the submission said.
“It will be an eyesore, but the only way for the developer to generate the profit needed to do the project.”
Resident of 40 years Joe Cuschieri said the proposed clubhouse would obstruct the views of surrounding residential properties.
“The proposed building threatens to diminish this aspect of our community, impacting property values and diminishing the overall aesthetic appeal of the area,” he said.
“The construction of a proposed six-level building along with other multi-levelled buildings in this complex seems incongruent with the residential character of our neighbourhood and could set a precedent for further inappropriate development in the area.”
But there are also many who are supportive of the bold plan.
Greystanes local and active member of the club board Martin Smith said the proposed development has multiple benefits.
“The height of the six towers remains within the existing tree canopy and in my opinion does not encroach on the existing neighbourhood or their enjoyment of the golf course,” he said.
“This development will enable the club to upgrade facilities and provide sustainability for the next generations to use and enjoy the club, course and its facilities.”
Club president and fellow Greystanes resident Denis Clifford said although the club is currently financially sound, the future is unknown.
He believes the development will provide a secondary source of income, ensuring the club continues to run well into the future.
“Under this proposal we get a new clubhouse with modern facilities, greater flexibility of use by patrons, an improved golf course and importantly a source of income to guarantee our survival in the community,” he said.
The proposal is being assessed by the NSW Department of Planning.
Ellie Busby is a news reporter for Western Sydney Publishing Group. A graduate of the University of Hertfordshire and Western Sydney University, she is a journalism Major. Ellie has worked with Universal Media, The Cova Project and for a range of other organisations. In 2024, Ellie was named Young Writer of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards.