Mantra roof leaks repair approval given

Work may start on a long-term solution to polluted roof leaks on the Mantra resort in Ettalong, following the approval of amendments to a development application last week.

A development application was originally approved five years ago on 29 July 2016 for "Rooftop structures to enclose existing communications infrastructure and plant at the Mantra Ettalong Beach".

The objective was "to enclose and protect two fully exposed plant rooms and partially enclose the communication infrastructure (aerials) on the rooftop of the Mantra Ettalong Beach, which are deteriorating as a result of exposure to the prevailing harsh coastal environment and also from destruction by vermin".

The "vermin" are understood to be pigeons.

The application for the amendments said:"The proposal seeks a better design outcome that primarily responds to feasibility constraints and the operational requirements of the communication infrastructure.

"The development (as modified) will continue to provide the necessary protective structure for the telecommunication infrastructure but with enhanced aesthetic design outcomes.

"The modification pursues a design that is integrated within the current architectural form of the building, reducing visual intrusion and potential adverse amenity impacts."

The council planning assessment stated: "The unit owners have no control over the roof top structures.

It said they had "claimed that they have experienced water damage caused by telecommunication companies drilling through the waterproof membrane on the roof to anchor various devices".

The assessment said additional conditions of consent had been imposed to the current proposal.

These included a report by a registered structural engineer certifying that the existing roof-level slab was capable of supporting the proposed addition and any recommendations on the structural upgrade of the existing structure.

They also included the requirement of a certificate of compliance that waterproofing to the roof was in accordance with AS3740.

"The club constructed the building and operates the club within one section of the building," the report stated.

"The resort part of the building was sold and the club retained ownership of the two service towers located on the roof of the Mantra building.

"The Mantra Resort building ... is used for permanent residential and short stay tourist accommodation

"Various telecommunication facilities occupy the two service towers of the roof.

"The owners of the units have engaged in legal action against the club.

"Council has no direct involvement in the proceedings between the relevant parties."

SOURCE:

DA Tracker, 2 Aug 2021

DA49233,002, Central Coast Council