New surf club buildings recommended

The Peninsula could have two new "generic" $1 million surf club buildings in two years' time, if the recommendations of a consultants' report to Gosford Council are adopted.

Gosford architectural and town planning consultants Andrews Neil found that the existing buildings could be maintained for up to 30 years.

However, they found that "these buildings are in a declining state and do not contribute to the beach environment, safety, presentation or lifestyle of the Central Coast", the council was told.

Regular periodic maintenance was required to all buildings and this had been overlooked by Council and by the clubs in the past.

"The existing buildings are not able to house uses for which they are intended

"They cannot accommodate the equipment they need to meet the demands of community, recreation and lifesaving.

"The existing buildings are unable to provide an income stream sufficient to fund their own maintenance.

"The buildings do not meet current design, safety and legislative standards."

The report identified building practices that were not appropriate for buildings directly exposed to beach conditions.

This included the use of extruded bricks, steel framing for roofs, steel fixing systems and other unsuitable construction methods.

The architects said: "The Central Coast is promoting itself as a major tourist destination yet our greatest attraction, the beach and the water, are dominated by ugly uninviting and, in many cases, dilapidated surf clubs.

"This is a real opportunity for Council to substantially enhance our greatest asset and provide extra tourist dollars not only to the clubs but the whole community."

The council was told there were no requirements unique to any of the six Gosford clubs that were subject of the report.

A generic design could be used. It "would suffice and be cost-effective".

The council decided to assess funding options to replace the six club buildings over a three-year period.

It was recommended that Copacobana and Avoca be replaced next year. Umina and Ocean Beach in 2003, followed by Killcare and Wamberal the following year.

Council agenda SF033, July 24