New application for three-storeys
A fresh development application (DA) for a three-storey building on three lots at the corner of Araluen Dr and Killcare Dr, Hardys Bay, is expected to be lodged this month.
Architects have told a meeting of the Hardys Bay Residents Group that the new proposal was a modification of the proposal previously rejected by Gosford Council.
The modified proposed development would still see a three-storey building facing the bay, according to group publicity officer Mr Allan Wilson.
This time it would consist of two shops, four residential units, a pool, gymnasium and barbecue area as well as parking at the rear of the shops under the first level of units, he said.
The previous proposal consisted of four shops and nine residential units with two levels of underground parking.
The initial DA was submitted to Council in August 2008 and the Land and Environment Court ruled in favour of Council's refusal to grant the DA in March last year.
Mr Wilson said the Hardys Bay Resident's Group committee was approached in early February by two architects, Mr Graham Murray and Mr Peter Macfadyen, representing Bespoke Properties with the alternative plans.
"We advised the architects that we would, as a committee, listen to their ideas but refrain from making any comments or pass any views on the new proposal and duly pass them on to a membership meeting for general comment," said Mr Wilson.
He said the design had been altered but concerns still remained about the bulk and scale.
Mr Wilson said the architects provided interesting observations from the floor.
"Graham Murray offered that, with last year's model in mind, the current design showed 'some promising signs'," said Mr Wilson.
He said Mr Murray told the meeting that the upper development featured only the pool area and the commercial section was a reduced 36 metres in length.
Mr Wilson said Mr Macfadyen argued that the new design had better bulk and scale and would retain more trees.
Email, 1 Mar 2011
Allan Wilson, Hardys Bay Residents Group