Why residents in upmarket suburb are at war over Taronga Zoo's new $77million 'Sky Safari' cable cars
A proposed $77million upgrade at Australia's Taronga Zoo has sparked controversy among residents of Sydney 's ritzy lower north shore.
The world-famous zoo has unveiled plans for a new cable car following the closure of its original Sky Safari in February 2023.
First launched in 1987 and last upgraded 25 years ago in 2000, the iconic Sky Safari transported more than 20million passengers during its lifetime, including locals, tourists, celebrities, and even royalty.
The zoo is now planning to remodel what it describes as an 'ageing asset' that has 'reached the end of its workable life' with modern features.
The accessible gondolas will transport guests on an extended route and offer improved access to the zoo for visitors of all ages and abilities.
The larger cars would fit 10 people each, compared with the previous system's six, and have flip-back seats to allow larger wheelchairs and prams.
However, the plans have drawn criticism from some community groups and residents.
The Headland Preservation Group (HPG) argues the visual impact of the Sky Safari will be 'enormous,' citing concerns over its proposed height of 36.5metres and the potential for excessive lighting from the gondolas.
The group is also against the removal of 13 trees to make way for the new cable cars.
While Taronga Zoo has committed to planting new trees, the HPG argues that the mature trees slated for removal are irreplaceable.
The community group said they plan to meet with representatives from Taronga Zoo to voice their concerns over the proposal.
The HPG is also encouraging residents to write to their state MP and the Mosman Council to urge them to oppose the project.
However, not all locals share the group's concerns.
Some residents have spoken in support of the $77million redevelopment, accusing the community group of overreacting.
'View from the top would be great. Looking forward to it. Stop NIMBYing everything. We have a world-class zoo only getting better,' one person wrote online.
'The care they've taken in their landscape architecture and preserving biodiversity gives them a track history of excellence. Push forward please.'
Others said that the negative attention had actually encouraged them to support the project more actively.
'Thanks for bringing this to my attention. I have made a submission in full support of the proposal – what a wonderful addition to our city,' wrote another.
'I take particular issue with your point around traffic – given the entire point of the skyway is to move people out of cars and onto ferries.
'Talk about grasping at straws.'
Mosman Council has also weighed in, submitting its response to the NSW Government's planning portal in support of the project.
In the submission, the council noted that the previous Sky Safari and the waiting area had not been compliant with the Disability Discrimination Act.
The council also highlighted capacity issues, stating that the previous system failed to meet demand during peak visiting hours, causing long queues.
The proposal remains under review by planning authorities, with the timeline for public submissions to close on June 10.
Taronga Zoo says the new cable car is expected to open in between 2027 and 2028.
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