Gosford RSL development application lodged
The proposed design images show a huge building reminiscent of the Hanging Gardens of Babylon that will dramatically alter the look of the main gateway to Gosford.
Central Coast
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Gosford RSL will undergo a $31 million transformation if the Joint Regional Planning Panel approves a major redevelopment of its West Gosford site.
Under the proposal the club would be significantly extended in a building which will dramatically change the streetscape of the major entry to Gosford.
The proposed building would include new restaurants, bars and lounges as well as conference and event facilities.
The site will include both underground and above ground parking with a total of 361 spaces.
For a short while both the new club and the old will stand side-by-side before the latter is finally demolished.
The building features unusual landscaped terraces and huge windows to let in maximum light.
Residents have until May 4 to make a written submission on the plan which can be lodged through Central Coast Council’s website.
If approved, the revamped RSL Club would be the second major development given the nod in West Gosford this year.
Millionaire developer Tony Denny will build a seven story tower building near his Gosford Classic Car Museum which will contain show rooms, office space, cafe and gym.
Long History
The redevelopment of Gosford RSL is the latest chapter in the story of the club whose first licenced premises opened in an empty Ford garage in Mann Street with about 60 members.
That building had corrugated iron walls, a tarred floor and no ceiling.
A new club opened in Mann Street in 1960 and quickly grew to 900 members — but women were excluded.
By 1967-8 a major renovation was completed which was opened by then NSW Governmor, Sir Roden Cutler.
Women were finally allowed in the club at that time, but not in the member’s bar or the billiard room
Development of the club took a setback when a major fire occurred in 1973 which precipitated the move to the current location in West Gosford.