Skydive the Beach’s controversial plan to build a new administration building at the edge of Stuart Park has been recommended for approval by Wollongong City Council staff.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The 400-square metre premises proposed for the corner of Kembla Street and George Hanley Drive attracted criticism earlier this year, with residents and some councillors saying a private business should not be able to build such a facility on public land.
Objectors also raised concerns about a loss of views for nearby residents and said alternative sites for the skydiving headquarters should be considered.
But staff have now given the building the go ahead, subject to a series of development conditions, as it is in line with the ‘‘strategic direction’’ outlined in the council’s Blue Mile and city foreshore plans.
If approved, the administration building would include a reception area, merchandise shop and kiosk, as well as offices and parachute packing and storage space.
It would also have unisex public toilets, a deck and an outdoor training area.
There was no parking proposed under the original plan, but this was deemed ‘‘unsatisfactory’’ in discussions with the council.
The approval has been recommended under ‘‘deferred commencement’’ and will be subject to Skydive the Beach agreeing to pay the council roughly $3,000 per space for 20 car parks within Stuart Park.
The developer will also have to enter into a lease with the council to use the land before any development can go ahead.
Once the site is operational, the business must keep the amenities unlocked for public use during opening hours and must not display any goods and materials outside the premises.
In addition to 43 objections, there were 60 submissions lodged in support of the project.
The council says these submissions were ‘‘predominately pro-forma type emails’’ stating the current Skydive the Beach facility was inadequate, the new building would increase tourism and the plan was in line with the strategic plan for Stuart Park.
The staff recommendation will be considered by the Independent Hearing and Assessment Panel (IHAP) at a meeting next week.
Those wishing to speak at the meeting are invited to contact the council by November 3.