The NSW Government will provide $400,000 in funding from its COVID-19 stimulus program to remove a derelict building from waterfront Crown land at Windang to create more green public open space for the Illawarra.
Member for Kiama Gareth Ward MP announced that $400,000 in funding will be provided from the COVID-19 stimulus program to allow for a sensitive adaptation of the land at 17 Judbooley Parade to benefit the entire community.
The NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment – Crown Lands will manage the project and liaise with the Illawarra Local Aboriginal Land Council and Wollongong City Council on adaptation of the site.
"This $400,000 stimulus funding is great news for the Windang area as it will allow for the removal of a derelict block of units that has been a local eyesore for a number of years," Mr Ward said.
"Importantly, the building's removal and return of the site to public open space will have to be done with great care, sensitivity and in consultation with the local Aboriginal community.
"Fishing, feasting and other traditional activities were undertaken for thousands of years on Lake Illawarra and its foreshore. It is important that the proposed works are sympathetic to the historical and cultural importance of the site."
The old dilapidated unit block will have to be removed by hand as carefully as possible to protect any relics that are found on site.
Once the building is safely removed the site can be revegetated as appropriate in consultation with the Aboriginal community.
NSW Minister for Water, Property and Housing Melinda Pavey said once completed, the site will be a lakeside asset of which the entire community can be proud.
"COVID-19 has shone a light on how vital quality green open space is to support healthy, happy and resilient communities and this project is a great example of how we can enhance public land for community benefit," Mrs Pavey said.
"Once the old building is removed this land can be consolidated with the adjoining Edith Lacey Park to provide a beautiful extended area of green open space reserve overlooking Lake Illawarra for the benefit of all local residents and families," Minister Pavey concluded.
