Work starts on five-storey apartment block

Construction work has started on a controversial Umina Beach five-storey residential development, which is expected to be ready for occupancy by March next year.

ORA Apartments, on the corner of West and Morris Sts, are now selling "off the plan".

The five-storey building will consist of 20 apartments above retail space.

Central Coast Council approved the project last February after 18 months' consideration.

Plans were amended four times in response to community consultation and discussions with Council staff.

The development was approved with 21 variations to the planning codes and, at the time, neighbouring resident Mr Bruce Illfield said he feared it would open a "pandora's box" of other non-complying developments.

Described by selling agent Mr Stuart Gan, of Central Coast Realty, as a "landmark" and the "most iconic" residential development in Umina, he expects it to be the catalyst for "ongoing urban revitalisation" of the town centre.

SOURCE

Media statement, 27 Jan 2020

Stuart Gan, Central Coast Realty

Media statement, 15 Feb 2019

Bruce Illfield, Umina