Kangaroo Bay: Council refuses request for extension of time

The Clarence Council has once again refused an extension of time request from developer Chambroad in relation to the proposed Kangaroo Bay development. Here’s what went down in last night’s meeting.

The Clarence Council has rejected an application from developer Chambroad for an extension of time before the council buys back land at Kangaroo Bay, which the company hoped would allow it to undertake consultation on its revised plan.

The company was set to build a hotel and hospitality school at the site, but plans for the educational facility were dumped.

Last month the council voted to deny Chambroad’s request for an extension of time to substantially commence the build of a development, also knocking back its redesign which was only made public at the start of the meeting.

Chambroad's new designs for Kangaroo Bay. Pic: Chambroad. Note: embargoed: 1900 19/12

Chambroad's new designs for Kangaroo Bay. Pic: Chambroad. Note: embargoed: 1900 19/12

On Monday, the council considered another request for an extension, hoping the council’s buyback deadline could be pushed out by one or two months.

It was a request which was denied by elected members.

“It is not acting in good faith on the eve of the December meeting to ask councillors to consider a vague concept, embargoed to the hour of the meeting to avoid councillors consulting with the community,” Cr Tony Mulder said.

“It is not acting in good faith to be so secretive.”

Former MLC Tony Mulder, unhappy at expulsion from the Liberal Party, determined to become Clarence Mayor. Picture: SAM ROSEWARNE.

All elected members voted to reject the extension of time, except for Ald Richard James.

Meanwhile Deputy mayor Allison Ritchie moved a motion to pre-authorise the CEO to buyback the land in April.

“Should the buyback take place, in accordance with this amended motion, it recognises the expectation for council to re-consult with the community in relation to the Kangaroo Bay urban design strategy and concept plan.”

“This motion is about getting the ball rolling for the buyback, it is about saying the buyback should proceed.”

Allison Richie, Deputy mayoral candidate and Mayoral candidate Alderman Brendan Blomeley Picture: Linda Higginson

The motion was carried.

In the meantime, Chambroad will continue its consultation on the revised plans, released last month and has the option to make more requests before the buyback date.

The company has engaged Kym Goodes, of 3P Advisory, to undertake engagement.

Ms Goodes said discussions had commenced with local businesses along with door knocking.

consultation will continue over the next few weeks.

“We’ve got quite a comprehensive engagement strategy, this incudes the engagement platform and which is going live tomorrow (Tuesday),” Ms Goodes said.

Originally published as Kangaroo Bay: Council refuses request for extension of time