Plans to redevelop Kiama’s Blowhole Point into an “iconic” building which may include an aquarium, museum and signature restaurant have prompted an outcry from the community.
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While Kiama councillor Matt Brown has promoted the idea, MP Gareth Ward has said he would fight the plans which would remove the existing cabins and build the shops and restaurants into the hill.
Mr Ward’s opposition has been echoed by a number of community members who have taken to social media to say the cabins should stay.
The plans are printed in the Kiama Tourism Opportunities report which was adopted by councillors this week.
The cabins proposal is one of a number of different tourism possibilities for the southern Illawarra town and has a number of barriers to its implementation, the council said.
Cr Brown said he was looking forward to implementing the recommendations.
Blowhole Point is on Crown Land, owned by the state government, managed by council.
Mr Ward said he would assert his authority to protect the land from development.
“The government will not be proceeding with any redevelopment of the cabins,” Mr Wards said.
“People are sick and tired of over-development in Kiama.
“The claim that this document has the support of community is wrong.
“The document has merit, but there will be no development at Blowhole Point while I am the local MP at Kiama.”
Cr Brown refused to concede the community was against the idea.
“It is the jewel in the crown of Kiama, the community is wanting to see that opened up,” he said.
“The community has been consulted extensively at well-attended meetings in Gerringong, Kiama and Jamberoo.”
“I went to the bakery and two people just pulled over to tell me they support it,” Cr Brown said.
- with staff writers
