Plans for nine units approved

Gosford Council has approved plans demolish two houses and build a nine-unit residential complex at 81 and 83 Ocean Beach Rd, Woy Woy.

The unit development had previously been deferred while a decision was reached regarding trees on the site.

All the trees are to be removed with the exception of two Norfolk pines.

Provisions have been put in place to ensure that the trees do not present a danger to the units or their occupants.

The high-density residential complex may be built in the medium-density zoned area because of State Environmental Planning Policy number 5 (SEPP 5) which permits such developments in order to provide low-cost housing for aged and disabled people.

Several councillors at the meeting said they objected to the development because it was being done under SEPP 5 and was an overdevelopment of the block.

Cr Chris Holstein said that he was supporting the development because if the council refused it, the decision would likely be overturned in a court action.

"We have mine, yours, and Buckley's chance of winning this if it goes to the Land and Environment Court," Cr Holstein said.

Cr Lynne Bockholt voted against approving the development.

The resolution to allow the development included a section giving the council's position on SEPP 5 developments.

It stated: "It (will) be noted that council is forced by State Government legislation to approve in-fill SEPP 5 developments in 2(a) residential zone which council vehemently opposes and has sought an exemption from the Minister from this type of development in Gosford City, as council has submitted a strategy for aged disabled persons and affordable housing."

Jonathan Reichard, council agenda DH.036, May 6