A proposed multi-million dollar mansion in the Newcastle suburb of Merewether has ignited a fierce backlash from residents who label the design a "fortress" that will dramatically alter their street's character and steal prized ocean views.
Neighbours describe 'aggressive' and 'selfish' design
Plans lodged with the City of Newcastle reveal a $2.5 million development application for a four-storey, split-level home at Woodward Street. The design, featuring a butler's pantry with three-metre ceilings, an upper guest level, a subterranean garden, and an elevated pool deck with a jacuzzi, would replace an existing single-storey house.
Neighbour Dr Christina Boedker told the Newcastle Herald that while locals expected the old home to be redeveloped, the scale of the new proposal came as a shock. "It's like an amphitheatre, it's just such a gorgeous part of Merewether," Dr Boedker said. "This development is a bit of a thorn in the eye. It's quite aggressive."
She argued the developers aimed to "mold the land to fit the mansion, rather than respect the land to work with the land." Dr Boedker, who purchased her property five years ago for its sweeping vistas, fears she will lose 100 per cent of her view of landmarks like Strzelecki headland and Stockton beach.
Concerns over privacy, property values and subsidence
Residents have raised a litany of objections, citing loss of privacy, significant overshadowing, view loss, and potential subsidence risks due to the site's steep topography. Dr Ian Boyd, another Woodward Street resident of eight years, said the proposed dwelling's sheer size was more suited to an acreage block.
"We and other neighbours are going to feel quite walled-in if they go ahead and do what they want to do," Dr Boyd stated. He also expressed concern that the value of surrounding properties would decrease significantly if the development proceeds.
Both Dr Boyd and Dr Boedker reported minimal communication from the property owners, who declined an invitation to meet and discuss the plans.
Designers defend 'high-quality architectural' response
A spokeswoman for Roka Design Studio, acting for the owners, said they had sought professional advice and were participating fully in the council's planning process. "They will consider any feedback or direction provided by council as part of that assessment," she said.
A Statement of Environmental Effects submitted with the DA contends the home was designed sensitively for the steep site. It claims the design maximises solar and view access while maintaining neighbourly amenity.
The statement asserts there is "no loss" of privacy or views to adjoining properties, as affected areas sit below view lines. It describes the proposal as a "high-quality architectural design" that reinforces Merewether's coastal hillside character and contributes to Woodward Street's visual cohesiveness.
Submissions on the controversial development application close on January 16, 2026.
