The Mackay Park Precinct Sunset Committee recently met to discuss potential uses and space requirements for the redevelopment of the former Batemans Bay bowling club site.
Chaired by shire mayor Liz Innes, the committee of nine community and four council representatives was formed after council purchased the site in April 2016 to represent the broader community as development opportunities were investigated.
Cr Innes said she is satisfied with progress so far.
“The precinct is a vital gateway site for our whole shire and the redevelopment will take as long as it takes to get the right outcome,” Cr Innes said.
Council bought the site with a view to partner with private developers: to date, four companies have expressed an interest.
At the meeting late last month, Otium Planning Group presented the committee with preliminary ideas for how the precinct could be developed.
The final proposal is expected to incorporate an aquatic and recreation centre, arts and cultural facility, conference and event space, tourist accommodation, residential accommodation, restaurant and cafes, and gateway visitor centre.
Mayor Liz Innes said an important consideration in the development of the site was not only that it met the needs of the community but also that it was affordable, now and into the future.
“Its early days and we’re still very much in the phase of sharing ideas and gathering information. The committee is already making a valuable contribution, and from this meeting they will be providing feedback on the specific space and usage elements that could be considered as the concepts develop,” she said.
“We know we have to be smart about this development to be responsible to our community and ratepayers. There is no doubt that there will be challenges meeting the community’s expectations and vision for this site but I am confident that by working closely with this passionate committee and the broader community we will achieve a realistic outcome we can all be proud of.”
