Retirees who have bought homes on the southern valley of Shell Cove say their lives would be irrevocably changed if plans to expand the nearby Killalea camping facilities went ahead.
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Several residents of "the valley" have spoken to the Mercury concerned their investment in a serene retirement location would be turned upside-down if a 200-seat function centre and expanded camping and cabin area were to go ahead.
They live on the southern-most part of Shell Cove, on the edge of the golf course, and with views across undeveloped bushland to Mystics beach and the 15 luxury "eco cabins", the conference centre, 53 serviced campsites, a new playground, walking trails and outdoor recreational equipment.
Reflections had said it would "consult extensively" with the community but the Shell Cove residents say this has been far from the reality.
The residents - who had paid a pretty penny for serenity - have told the Mercury their retirement plans may be changed for good.
Gail Snodgrass, 72, a former hotel proprietor, retired there with her husband Warren eight years ago.
"It's pristine land," she said. "It was given to the people to enjoy, not to build these things.
"They're talking about an amphitheatre ... the sound will go straight up the valley right to us.
"We came down here especially for the view. We have the Farm to the left of us ... and Minnamurra and Kiama, plus the mountains all around."
Plans include construction of an extra road in and out of the area - and some of the proposed routes go through the golf course and near homes.
"We have a green belt across from our house - we were told you could never build on a green belt," Ms Snodgrass said. "But that is one of the proposed areas for the road to go."
She said there had been scarce consultation from park operator Reflections Holiday Parks.
"The first thing we heard about it was when a gentleman came to the door," she said.
That gentleman was nearby resident Brad Jenkins, who took it upon himself to inform residents about the plans.
"Why had Reflections not engaged with the local residents?" Mr Jenkins said.
"The residents that surround these proposed developments especially the valley have the most to lose.
"So, I took the development plans and proceeded to walk the streets and knocked on doors.
"Resident after resident had no idea what was planned, there was anger, sadness, fear, anxiety and helplessness.
"I was asked many times: was it best to sell my home now?"
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