Arabic version: المطور يبيع موقع باردي ريدج المثير للجدل بعد انتهاكات بيئية

A site in Sydney’s south where hundreds of trees were illegally cleared to make way for a $10 million mansion has been secretly sold. The developer, Amir Abu Abara, was fined $70,000 for the unauthorized clearing of hundreds of trees and was ordered to restore the land to its original state. Despite the sale, the Sutherland Shire Council has stated that he remains responsible for the replanting of native vegetation.

According to ABC News, Abu Abara sold the 7.4-hectare site in early June to a newly registered company, Assetra Property Pty Ltd, for $850,000. This amount is $40,000 less than what he originally paid for the land in 2019. The sale raises concerns among local residents about how the developer will fulfill his obligations to replant the cleared area, especially since the new ownership does not automatically transfer these responsibilities.

The site, which is ecologically significant and home to endangered species such as the powerful owl, had its development application for the mansion rejected unanimously by the council. Experts criticized the proposed structure for its excessive size and potential environmental harm. The council’s assessment deemed the project inconsistent with the bushland character of the area.

Residents have expressed frustration over the lack of communication regarding the sale and accountability measures for the developer. Deb Cansdell, a member of the Woronora River Community Association, questioned how Abu Abara could be held liable for restoration when he no longer owns the land. The council confirmed that the enforceable undertaking remains in effect despite the change in ownership, and they will monitor compliance with the replanting order.