The Mosman mega-lot and the childcare centre in its shadow
Sydney Morning Herald
by Cindy YinFebruary 25, 2026
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A controversial development plan in Mosman, Australia, has sparked concerns over child safety as 12 homes are demolished to make way for a seven-story apartment block with 103 units. The mega-lot site, spanning 5369 square meters, is located near SDN Mosman childcare center, which serves 56 children. Residents and the childcare center fear that construction-related noise, dust, and shadows will pose significant risks to young children's health and safety.
The development application, lodged in December, includes plans for three floors of basement car parking. Excavation on the site adjacent to the childcare center could disrupt nap periods, create fine dust pollution, and overshadow outdoor play areas. These concerns have led SDN chief executive Kay Turner to emphasize the need for careful consideration of young children's unique vulnerabilities during construction. If mitigating measures are not implemented, she warned that the childcare center might be forced to close.
The proposed $123 million development is one of the largest projects under NSW’s low- and mid-rise planning reforms, aiming to meet housing targets. However, Catherine Gowen, a parent whose youngest daughter attends the childcare center, expressed deep concerns about the project's impact on the center's safety and sustainability. Frank Scarf, director of developer Arissa Group, acknowledged potential disruptions but emphasized that safeguards like dust mesh could reduce risks.
This conflict highlights broader tensions between urban development and community safety, particularly in areas where housing demand is high. The case underscores the importance of balancing growth with the protection of vulnerable populations, such as young children. As similar rezoning trends continue to emerge in inner-city suburbs, Mosman’s situation serves as a cautionary tale for other communities navigating rapid change.
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Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/25/2026