The panel led by former Labor minister Carl Scully found the proposal’s height limits and density were inappropriate and out-of-character for the area.
The height,bulk,distribution of buildings and the intrusion into view corridors to the coast from the surrounding areas would have significant implications for the amenity of the site,its environs and the surrounding area,” the panel said.
It also found the scale of the development was not supported by existing transport infrastructure.
Planning Minister Rob Stokes said in a statement that Meriton’s plan would have concentrated half of Randwick City Council’s proposed housing growth over the next six to 10 years on one site.
“Little Bay is a fantastic place to live in Sydney’s eastern suburbs and we will continue to look at appropriate ways this area can be supported with homes,jobs and infrastructure,” he said.
Meriton’s plan to build 1900 apartments at Little Bay provoked widespread opposition from residents,the council and local Liberal branches.
Michael Daley,Labor member for Maroubra,said the decision was a win for the community.