DA for 5 and 7 George Street
Just before Christmas the owners of 5 and 7 George Street submitted a development application (DA) to Wollongong City Council (WCC) to build a residential flat building with 10 apartments and basement parking. The proposed development is near Ryans Hotel and in an area where three-storey developments are permissible (R3 zone).
Neighbouring residents expressed concern about this DA, including that the proposed development is out of character with nearby dwellings, most of which are single storey; the development does not seem to consider the impact on neighbouring heritage buildings; it will overshadow homes; and it will contribute to an already congested road network, intensify on-street parking issues and add to traffic problems at the junction of George and Phillip streets. The proposal instigated a lot of chatter on Facebook as well as a lot of submissions to Council. We await to see the next steps.
Destruction of toilets in Thomas Gibson Park
Twice in as many weeks the toilets in Thomas Gibson Park close to the railway line have been destroyed by vandals. It is most unfortunate that this keeps happening. Not only is it inconvenient to residents and visitors, it is also costly to WCC and therefore to ratepayers. The TVC plans to ask WCC to investigate solutions. In the meantime, if anyone sees anything untoward, please report it immediately to Police.
Bulli Bypass
Transport for NSW (TfNSW) recently released findings from the community consultation into a Bulli Bypass. This is part of $20 million allocated by the NSW Government to early planning of a Bulli Bypass. Feedback indicated strong support for the proposed bypass, with 84% (1820) of respondents supporting the project, citing improved traffic flow, network resilience, the project’s potential to benefit the town’s character, amenities and local businesses and improve road safety. Key findings include:
- strong community support for building a bypass
- concern about current congestion through Bulli
- community desire to see the town centre become a vibrant place to visit
- community support for safety improvements for road users, pedestrians and cyclists
- a need for additional infrastructure to support public transport and active transport options.
TfNSW stated it will continue to investigate. An options report summarising the findings will be released in 2025 when the community will be invited to provide feedback on these options. However, there is currently no funding for construction. More information on the project website: www.transport.nsw.gov.au/projects/current-projects/bulli-bypass.
Next TVC meeting: Sunday, 23 February, 4pm at TRIPS Hall, in Railway Parade, Thirroul
