Patonga tavern gets go-ahead

Patonga store is to be redeveloped into a tavern after Gosford Council approved amendments to the proposal at its meeting on September 2.

The decision is the culmination of six years of effort by Mr Robert Osborne, owner of the store, to have council approve the development.

Council had concerns over the building's heritage value and the number of car spaces available, issues which have now been resolved.

The amendments made to the plans included an additional storage area and change of use of part of the residential floor area to tavern usage.

Cr Geoff Preece said that he did not object to the amendments.

"It is a change of use so it doesn't further impact on heritage," he said.

Cr Lynne Bockholt and Cr Judith Penton opposed the amendments.

"Of the many decisions I make at council, one of the main things I regret is agreeing to a tavern at Patonga," Cr Bockholt said.

"I'm not supporting intensification of use of that site."

Council originally refused consent to build the tavern but owner Mr Osborne appealed to the Land and Environment Court.

Council had resolved to defend the appeal but also negotiate with Mr Osborne.

Alison Branley, Council agenda DH 085, September 2