Council agrees to remove car spaces

Gosford Council will accept a voluntary contribution of $75,000 from the owners of the Patonga Beach Hotel to remove five car spaces and increase the outdoor dining amenity.

According to hotel owner Mr Robert Osborne, the contribution will be tied to "much needed" Patonga infrastructure improvements.

"The resolution of this issue comes after a lengthy battle with councils' planners spanning some 10 years, to get the development right for the owners, community and patrons," Mr Osborne said.

"It's been a very long struggle with the planners, notwithstanding there was independent expert traffic engineer's advice and the Patonga Progress Association supporting the removal of the on-site car spaces to avoid the likelihood of pedestrian and vehicle conflict. "We are delighted that the council resolved nine to one in support of the proposal which is a win for both the council on behalf of the community and the proponent."

According to a council staff report, the voluntary contribution "is conditional upon those monies being expended solely on car parking or foreshore works in and between Patonga town centre area and Dark Corner boat ramp".

"The estimate of cost of $200,000 to undertake road works which will deliver an additional 18 on-road car parking spaces in the Patonga town centre and associated traffic calming is considered to remain an accurate estimate of cost for the specific design tabled," the report stated.

"Future car parking is to be considered in conjunction with overall plans being developed by the director of city services for car parking, infrastructure and general foreshore improvements in the Patonga area."

Council agenda ENV.66, 6 Oct 2009 Press release, 9 Oct 2009 Robert Osborne, Patonga Beach Hotel