Council transfers lane to school

Gosford Council has finalised the transfer of a laneway from its control to the Department of Education and Training.

The unnamed laneway is located between Hobart Ave and Umina Public School.

A council report states: "There is no proposal to acquire a new road to replace the road to be closed, nor is there a need to construct a road to replace the road to be acquired".

In February, a proposed acquisition notice was given to council by the Crown solicitor's office on behalf of the Department of Education and Training.

The report stated: "The laneway is occupied by the Department of Education and is enclosed by a fence.

"Prior to occupation, the laneway contained a track that allowed access to adjoining properties. "Council has not spent funds on the construction of the track, but may have carried out periodic maintenance work."

The report stated that no public utilities owned by council such as water, sewerage or drainage work, have been placed within the land.

"Pursuant to Section 206 of the Roads Act 1993, council is not entitled to compensation," the council report stated.

In August, the Crown solicitor's office notified council that the laneway was compulsorily acquired by the Minister for Education and Training.

Council resolved to execute a Deed of Release and Indemnity between council and the Minister of Education and Training.

Council agenda COR.81, 26 Aug 2008