Westchester : Restrictions Urged for Bluffs

Councilwoman Ruth Galanter has proposed extending the area covered under a temporary ordinance that limits construction along the scenic Marina Bluffs, overlooking the Ballona Wetlands north of Westchester.

The law would apply to bluffs between Lincoln and Sepulveda boulevards; slopes west of Lincoln Boulevard are already covered under the existing ordinance, which was approved June 5. The new law would be in effect for a minimum of one year until permanent restrictions are approved by the City Council.

The ordinance would set standards for building heights, open spaces near buildings, design, landscaping, grading, drainage and erosion control.

Galanter said in a statement that any new construction along the bluffs could cause erosion and would be an eyesore to the surrounding area. Although only a few homes sit on the ecologically sensitive bluffs, developers have targeted several tracts for future home construction.