An LGS spokeswoman said the company held pre-lodgment meetings with the council, outlining its plan to “increase parking at the centre by 80 spaces, including some spaces with shade sails, create new access to the car park from North Street, create new entrance statements, activate the Clyde Street frontage by adding new retail spaces and public areas, continue the council’s streetscape works in Clyde Street, rejuvenate the landscaping along the Princes Highway and install a rooftop solar generating plant”.

“The cost of the works will be around $4 million and they are scheduled to begin before the end of this year,” the spokesman said.

LGS CEO Peter Lambert said the development would be a major investment in the Batemans Bay CBD and would improve amenity for the whole community.

“Local shoppers are aware of how quickly this car park fills and know that it is about time we did something about it,” Mr Lambert said.

“The current site has only 200 spaces, augmented by a further 900 spaces at The Village Centre, along with council and street parking.

“We understand how important accessible car parking is to support shoppers in this key local business area and we’re keen to provide as many spaces as practically possible.

“The 280 parking spaces will be free, but we will maintain the existing three-hour council limit, to provide continuing parking availability for shoppers.