• Council resolved not proceed with the Waterfront Centre at location A, Lot 4023, DP 1254658, Shell Cove at the Council Meeting this week.
• Council will continue to explore alternative locations and options that considering current and future community needs.
Shellharbour City Council will continue to investigate options following tonight's decision to not proceed with the Waterfront Project on Lot 4023, DP 1254658, Shell Cove.
Council is exploring options that will consider current and future community needs as a result of not proceeding with the Waterfront Centre in its previously planned location, with work already underway.
At its Ordinary Meeting on Tuesday, May 27, Council endorsed the recommendation to formally cancel the Waterfront Centre project following a comprehensive community consultation process and a shift in community and development priorities for the area.
Caption: The original proposed lot for Waterfront Centre.
Shellharbour City Mayor Chris Homer said the decision reflected Council's commitment to listening to the community and adapting to changing needs.
"The community gave us feedback, and we've responded. This project has been on the table for some time, in that time the area has evolved, and we want to make sure we have the right mix for current and future community needs." Mayor Homer said.
The consultation explored a number of potential uses and locations, including the original site (Location A), newly acquired vacant land (Location B), and other alternatives. Ultimately in response to community feedback, Council has decided not to pursue the Waterfront Centre project at Location A and will instead focus on reviewing broader community needs across the city.
In place of the Waterfront Centre, Council is exploring opportunities to deliver community infrastructure in other locations. Council has also started early planning for a potential creative and cultural precinct in Shellharbour Village, which may involve redeveloping the existing theatre and library sites into a community hub.
"This isn't the end of conversation," Mayor Homer continued.
"This is about taking a long-term, strategic view. We want to make sure our decisions today provide flexibility and value for the community both now and into the future." Council will continue to engage with the community as part of this broader review.
The land will remain in Council ownership and will be incorporated into the area's recreation and green space.
