Killcare appeal rejected

The Land and Environment Court has dismissed an appeal against Gosford Council's rejection of a seven-storey development in Araluen Dr, Hardy's Bay.

Community group president Mr Adrian Williams said the recent news had been greeted with elation in the general community.

Mr Williams said the developer's appeal to the court was rejected by Commissioner Brown on March 8, based on a number of factors including excessive visual impact.

"The immediate response to the eventual decision on the long-running controversy was one of a mix of exhilaration and relief, with community members expressing delight with the outcome," Mr Williams said.

"The interests of the community had to be a paramount concern when a major development of this nature is under consideration.

"This complex simply didn't fit in with the rest of the buildings around the bay and the general environment.

"This is great news for our community.

"Common sense has prevailed."

Local architect Mr Peter Macfadyen said he couldn't agree more with the decision to block the development.

"We are quite open to sites along the foreshore being developed but we would have liked to see a more sensible approach taken," Mr Macfadyen said.

"Obviously, this proposal was one of blatant overdevelopment and the court has certainly confirmed that with this recent decision."

Meanwhile, president of the Wagstaffe Killcare Community Association Mr Graeme Anderson said the combined pressure and joint support found with the Hardy's Bay Residents Group and the Killcare Wagstaffe Trust no doubt helped the cause.

"We are happy with the low key atmosphere that has over the years attracted a village-like community," Mr Anderson said.

"We are at the end of a road and not a medium density hub alongside public transport, and strongly prefer to stay that way."

Press release, 17 Mar 2010 Allan Wilson, Hardy's Bay Residents Group Press release, 8 Mar 2010 Graeme Anderson, Wagstaffe Killcare Community Association