A Shellharbour councillor has raised concerns about the "reputational risk" that reported defects in homes constructed under the Waterfront Shell Cove project could pose to the council.
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Councillor Peter Moran moved a motion at Tuesday night's council meeting that staff prepare a report on defects in residences, after he was informed by a resident that their home had a number of faults - some of which required them to move out of their home for a time while they were repaired.
He said he did not know the nature of the defects, but there was a "significant number" in that house.
Shell Cove executive manager Wayde Peterson said the quality assurance process for the project went "over and above" what was required.
He said there was a two-stage process, with a pre-settlement inspection with the purchaser.
Where there were any defects - the goal was five or less, Mr Peterson said - they were addressed within 30 days.
When Cr Kellie Marsh asked if there had been any homes with more than five faults, Mr Peterson answered in the affirmative, but said all defects had been rectified and there were no outstanding disputes.
Mayor Marianne Saliba said she could not support Cr Moran's motion because all developments had some defects, and she believed the process to deal with them was appropriate.
"I'm confident and comfortable that we should allow the process that is in place, to take place," Cr Saliba said.
In response, Cr Moran said: "I think this is a risk of reputational damage for council".
He said it would be remiss of council to not ensure residents were looked after and the buildings were of the highest standard.
However, the motion was lost, with Crs Moran and Marsh voting for it, and Crs Saliba, Murray and Hamilton voting against.
Shellharbour council first committed to the Shell Cove project in 1993 and is developing it in conjunction with its commercial partner, Frasers Property.
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Natalie Croxon
Reporter at the Illawarra Mercury, mostly covering social affairs. Previously of the Bendigo Advertiser, Northern Daily Leader and Quirindi Advocate. Our Watch award winner.
Reporter at the Illawarra Mercury, mostly covering social affairs. Previously of the Bendigo Advertiser, Northern Daily Leader and Quirindi Advocate. Our Watch award winner.
