Kurrajong Hills: Island’s Oasis tourism development plans lodged with state government

Plans from a major Sydney developer to build a luxurious tourism hub in Sydney’s northwest have been lodged with the state government, despite stirring controversy among residents. See the pictures here.

Plans to develop tourism eco cabins in Sydney’s northwest have been lodged with the State Government, despite drawing controversy from locals.

Plans to develop tourism eco cabins in Sydney’s northwest have been lodged with the state government, despite drawing controversy from locals.

The Island’s Oasis, a 506,731sq m property at 278 Hermitage Rd in Kurrajong Hills, is pitched as a “luxurious retreat” comprising 200 luxury cabins, 100 camping and caravan sites, 100 glamping sites and six kitchen camp and common facilities.

A lodge and clubhouse is proposed be at the centre of the development, surrounded by five different areas including a mountain bike zone, horse trails, a pony club, glamping area, and outdoor activities including forest segway tours and an adventure playground.

The project, which is estimated to cost more than $210m, is backed by major Sydney developer Merc Capital, who were the names behind other mass developments in the Hills Shire and Merrylands.

At the time of publishing, the development is in the first stage of the application process, which is prepare the Secretary Environmental Assessment Requirements (SEARs).

An artist’s impression of what one type of the eco-cabins are predicted to look like, if approved.

“The proposed development aims to create a unique destination for local people and overseas visitors where they can enjoy a luxurious retreat within a beautiful forest backdrop created by the Blue Mountains and Kurrajong Hills,” development documents state

“The proposed development aims to rehabilitate and enhance the site, while using the available land in a combined effort to create a sustainable resort style destination and draw a wide range of visitors from the local area, along with tourists from regional and international markets.

An artist’s impression of what the second type of cabins may look like.

“The development will act as an enabler to attract visitation and the associated investment to the Hawkesbury region and Australia generally.”

The development drew some critique from concerned residents, according to a community engagement report, including concerns about environmental impacts, emergency access routes, increased traffic congestion and security risks for other residents.

Artist’s impressions of what the shared kitchen facilities are slated to look like.

These concerns were addressed and highlighted by the developers in the report.

Merc Capital has been contacted for further comment.