Thanks Austman, they are great points. However the sceptics believe that because the under the stairs is not in direct line of the pathway down stairs and out the front door, that it is not relevant to this rule on egress. I’ve seen the area so built up with stuff it’s embarrassing to walk into the building; I thought maybe I was just being a neat freak, but this is also a part of my quiet enjoyment of our lovely heritage building.
Any other pointers others can help with? most welcome to add to this list, especially as far as NSW rules go and for general storage of sports equipment, boxes etc. Thanks. 
Building lobbies and stairwells cannot be used for bike parking due to various reasons including:
1. They are designated emergency exit paths and cannot be obstructed.
2. They are the entrances to homes and should not be cluttered or look untidy.
3. They are not designed to be bike parking areas.
4. Bikes can damage paintwork on walls.