Saudi Embassy security concerns over development
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The Saudi Arabian Embassy is objecting to a six storey unit development in southern Canberra and seeking an extension of time to lodge an appeal.
The Saudis have raised security concerns about the 114 unit development on the Embassy Motel site in Deakin.
In a written objection to the ACT Planning and Land Authority (ACTPLA), the Saudis say the unit development would give direct line of sight into the embassy, compromising security.
"It is the view of the Embassy, supported by the Foreign Ministry of Saudi Arabia, that such line of sight would have potential to compromise the security of the Embassy."
The letter, signed by Ambassador Hassan T Nazer, goes on to request that ACTPLA consider capping the development at four storeys and eliminating the verandahs from the upper levels.
"The Embassy also notes that on the upper level it would appear that a verandah is proposed facilitating line of sight access across Adelaide Ave[nue]."
The head of the ACTPLA, Neil Savery, says the Saudi Embassy's concerns were taken into account.
"We have, however, added a condition to the approval which requires the retention of trees on unleased Territory land between the Embassy Motel site and the Saudi Embassy which would prevent any direct line of sight," he said.
"We also believe that if there are security issues they are more pronounced in other locations such as Adelaide Avenue."
But in its written objection, the Saudi Embassy says it remains concerned about the trees.
"The Embassy further notes its severest reservations that the proposed retention of trees currently in place, or the planting of additional and/or new trees between the proposed buildings and Adelaide Ave[nue] would provide any shielding for the Saudi Embassy site.
"It would more likely serve to mask the activities of anyone located on the verandah surrounds of the upper floors of the proposed development, without providing any protection to the Embassy."
Neil Savery says although the official appeal period has lapsed, the Saudi Embassy is now seeking more time to object.
"The Saudi Embassy has written to the ACT Administrative Appeals Tribunal [AAT] seeking an extension of time to lodge," he said.
"And as a result of that the AAT has written to all other parties to seek advice as to whether they would consent to that extension of time."
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade says it is aware of the concerns but it has no reason to intervene as it is an ACTPLA matter.
