Urban design meeting

A "second-round" Urban Design Framework public meeting will be held at Pearl Beach Progress Hall on Saturday, April 21, at 2pm.

Draft character statements for Pearl Beach and Patonga, prepared by consultant Brett Newbold, will be displayed and explained on the day.

Comments will be sought from those attending the meeting before recommendations are framed to be put to Gosford Council.

The second-round meeting for Woy Woy, Umina and Ettalong was held at Ettalong last week.

Each area was divided into about 15 localities, each of which had its present character described and its desired character proposed.

Residential areas were characterised in terms including density, building age and vegetation.

The term "parkland" was used for areas dominated by exotic species and "woodland" for areas with predominantly native vegetation.

The statements of desired character generally proposed that the existing character be retained.

The statements for highly visible areas, such as waterfronts, included the suggestion that future large buildings be designed as a series of smaller structures, "pavilions and wings" with varying roof lines, rather than as monolithic structures.

For further information, contact the council's project officer Ms Peta James on 4325 8871.

Mark Snell, April 4