Boolaroo: Proposal for a childcare facility at former Pasminco smelter site
It was land once part of a zinc and lead smelter site at Lake Macquarie, now there’s plans for a new development. Read all the details.
Newcastle
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After being deemed ‘fit for purpose’, there’s plans for part of the former Pasminco site at Boolaroo to house a brand new childcare centre.
The site underwent “extensive” remediation works after an acquisition deal saw the Hunter and Central Coast Development Corporation take control of the former lead and zinc smelter site in 2019 on behalf of the State Government.
That deal was able to unlock billions of dollars in development potential.
Earlier this month Green Capital Australia Pty Ltd lodged a development application with Lake Macquarie Council seeking consent for subdivision at 128 Munibung Rd to build a $2.6 million childcare facility.
The site is part of a master plan to establish a high-quality residential community in close proximity to the Glendale-Cardiff strategic centre, focusing on supporting an improved quality of life for potential new residents.
“The site has undergone extensive remediation works and a site auditor‘s report has been issued declaring the land as ’fit for residential and employment purpose’,” a planner said.
“It is understood that the Secretary at the Department of Planning, Industry & Environment has signed off on the site as ‘fit for purpose’.”
The two-storey proposal aims to cater for up to 119 children aged o-6, operating Monday and Friday, 52 weeks of the year.
It will also house 30 car parking spots, employ up to 20 staff and operate from the times of between 7am and 6pm.
The subject site is the last of the significant residential infill sites closely located to Lake Macquarie and emerging regional centres of Glendale and Cardiff.
“The proposal will support the envisaged rise in housing by providing childcare facilities to the residents,” a planner said.
“This proposal supports the residential growth in the Boolaroo suburb by providing an essential service and will make improvements and support social and economic provisions for the locality.
“The subdivision and proposed childcare design are in keeping with the context and setting of the district with its physical aesthetic and appearance.”
The ongoing Lake Macquarie Transport Interchange Project will also have additional benefits at the site.
“By providing improved connectivity to other regions and additional access to Glendale via the Pennant Street Bridge, facilitating regional residents access to the proposed childcare facilities,” a planner said.
The proposal is currently on public exhibition until March 3.
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