Kiama Municipal Council has welcomed the NSW Government's decision to list the Shoalhaven Street Precinct as a State Significant Rezoning Project, paving the way for a transformative new residential development in the heart of Kiama.
Located just a short walk from the town centre and railway station, the 2-hectare Council-owned site is now earmarked for future housing, including the potential for diverse and affordable homes that meet the evolving needs of the local community.
Mayor Cameron McDonald said the announcement was a significant milestone in both Council's Local Housing Strategy and long-term financial recovery plan.
"This precinct represents a unique opportunity to deliver thoughtfully designed housing close to essential services and transport," Mayor McDonald said.
"Being identified as a State Significant project means the NSW Government will fund the technical and environmental studies needed to progress the rezoning, removing the cost burden from our ratepayers."
"Council is committed to ensuring the community has a voice in what this site becomes. We look forward to engaging with residents, stakeholders and the development industry in shaping a precinct that reflects Kiama's character and values."
The proposal, endorsed by the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure's evaluation panel in May, was assessed as aligning with the Illawarra Shoalhaven Regional Plan 2041 and Kiama's draft Local Housing Strategy.
The Shoalhaven Street Precinct has also been identified as a key deliverable under Kiama Council's Strategic Finance and Governance Improvement Plan, which was developed in response to the Performance Improvement Order issued by the NSW Government.
"This project is about more than housing. It's about leveraging our land assets to secure better outcomes for our community: Socially, financially and environmentally," the Mayor added.
Council will continue to work with the NSW Government and local stakeholders as the planning process moves into community consultation and concept design stages.
