Court to inspect Hardy's Bay site

The Land and Environment Court will inspect the site proposed for a seven-storey development in Araluen Dr, Hardy's Bay, early next month.

The inspection is scheduled over four days from March 2 to 5, with a hearing taking place immediately after, according to Hardy's Bay Resident's Group publicity officer Mr Allan Wilson.

"In the period leading up to the court hearing, an urban planning specialist, Mr George Newbold, will confer with a heritage expert to provide advice as to the effect which could be created on the heritage-listed Old Killcare Store," Mr Wilson said.

"This will also contribute to a general site inspection by the Commissioner when he also views, from the nearby jetty, the scenic impact of the proposal provided by the large flat masonry wall facing Killcare Rd.

"On this occasion, a site inspection will provide an opportunity for a group of about 20 persons, including the Commissioner and the legal teams, to step aboard a suitable vessel, provided by the Hardy's Bay Residents Group, and evaluate the visual impact from the water."

Mr Wilson said since filing the subsequent appeal to the Land and Environment Court, the developer had made additional cosmetic changes to the plans.

The proposed development comprised four new commercial premises, nine terraced apartments to step up the slope behind the retail sections, and underground parking for 34 vehicles, according to Mr Wilson.

The developer appealed to the Land and Environment Court after Gosford Council rejected the application on grounds including the proposal's scenic impact.

More than 700 objections had been lodged to the application.

Press release, 3 Feb 2010 Allan Wilson, Hardy's Bay Residents Group