Batemans Bay’s iconic Boatshed will be demolished as part of plans to redevelop the foreshore site.
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The decision is likely to anger supporters of the old-fashioned fish and chip shop, who rallied to stop a similar move in 2000.
A Sydney company, CoralCorp Pty Ltd, has been selected for the project and says it intends to extensively redevelop the foreshore area, including a new restaurant and function centre. “Top class jetty facilities” are also promised.
Lands Minister Tony Kelly announced the deal yesterday, saying that following a call for proposals and a thorough examination of the responses, CoralCorp emerged as the best credentialled proponent for the foreshore redevelopment.
“The Boatshed site is next to the waterfront Crown reserve and redevelopment will complement works undertaken by Eurobodalla Shire Council,” Mr Kelly said.
“Council has significantly improved foreshore amenities with streetscaping, an amphitheatre, alfresco dining facilities, a viewing platform and cycleway.”
Sadly it will mean the end of the Boatshed, which is one of the last remaining heritage buildings in Batemans Bay.
CoralCorp says its proposal includes:
*A new architecturally designed building with enhanced views along the Clyde River.
*A restaurant and kiosk.
*Top class jetty facilities.
*Outdoor seating and eating areas.
*A function centre.
*Public access to an open top deck; and landscaping.
Mr Kelly said CoralCorp’s vision integrated well with council’s foreshore master plan.
However it met with little support on the streets of Batemans Bay yesterday, where people described the architect’s impression as out of character with the coast.
Mr Kelly said, as the Boatshed site was public land, the Government was required to open the opportunity to all interested parties.
“But in recognition of the Innes family’s long association with the locality, CoralCorp has committed to negotiating with it to continue operating the kiosk and ticketing for marine tours,” the Minister said.
“Effectively, the existing businesses will remain but will be upgraded to a first rate standard for the enjoyment of Batemans Bay residents and visitors.”
The Land and Property Management Authority and CoralCorp have signed a heads of agreement for the redevelopment and are finalising negotiations on a Project Development Agreement.
A timetable for the project has yet to be announced.
CoralCorp is based at North Ryde in Sydney and is the successful developer of projects such as the Fishermans Wharf retail complex at The Entrance.
