Sydney property developer Nick Couloumbis has been charged following an alleged altercation involving the son of one of his most vocal opponents over a controversial Paddington development.
Couloumbis, founder of boutique development firm Toohey Miller, is accused of assaulting Angus Onisforou at Justin Hemmes’ Club Rose Bay venue on Saturday, May 23.
The 30-year-old was arrested at Pyrmont on May 28 and charged with common assault and attempt to stalk or intimidate with intent to cause fear of harm.
Police allege the incident occurred between two men at the licensed venue in Rose Bay.
Couloumbis has denied wrongdoing and says he will plead not guilty.
“It was in self defence and I look forward to presenting my case with my lawyer in court,” he said.
He also claimed there had been “a history of bullying and harassment” from the Onisforou family, allegations they deny.
Angus Onisforou is the son of barrister and businessman Theo Onisforou, who has led community opposition to Couloumbis’ proposed $78.3 million development at 160 Oxford Street, Paddington.
The nine-storey apartment project has become a major flashpoint in debates over development in Sydney’s eastern suburbs.
At a recent community meeting organised by independent MP Alex Greenwich and Woollahra councillor Harriet Price, Theo urged locals to oppose the project.
“I’m going to ask all of you to tell everybody that wants to live in Paddington: boycott this development,” he said.
Theo also rejected Couloumbis’ claims of harassment.
“I have no doubt that he felt very harassed by my speech because it was the truth – and the truth hurts,” he said.
Couloumbis was granted conditional bail and is due to appear in court next month.
Source: The Australian
