Planned new Darwin RSL clubhouse on the Esplanade expected to win council’s in-principle support

DARWIN Council is expected to offer support for the development of an RSL clubhouse next to the Darwin Cenotaph, with the Darwin RSL’s plans set to go to council on Tuesday night.

• Darwin council votes against setting RSL Esplanade proposal deadline
• Darwin RSL could be given six weeks to provide plans to Darwin council to relieve community angst
• Groups in opposition to planned RSL Esplanade development call for land to be rezoned
• Proposed Esplanade RSL clubhouse would include cafe, for family-friendly focus

DARWIN Council is expected to offer support for the development of an RSL clubhouse next to the Darwin Cenotaph, with the Darwin RSL’s plans set to go to council on Tuesday night.

However, support will be conditional on the sub branch undertaking necessary planning and regulatory requirements that would apply to a development are followed.

Council General Manager Government Relations & External Affairs Melissa Reiter said given the plans had gained significant public criticism, the RSL would need to ensure the proposed $10 million-$12 million development followed appropriate planning requirements and regulations.

Concept art of the proposed new Darwin RSL club house on the Esplanade, The Soul of Darwin, which Darwin council is set to provide in-principle support for. Picture: Supplied

MORE ON THE PLANNED DARWIN RSL ESPLANADE

Esplanade or bust: RSL says it won’t rebuild if it can’t use preferred Cenotaph site

Deckchair Cinema supporters start petition to prevent nearby development

Darwin RSL relocation: Plan to rebuild site on The Esplanade near Cenotaph

“At this stage of the proposal, City of Darwin would only be giving in-principle support, and the RSL would then be required to undertake necessary planning, meet regulatory requirements and carry out public consultation,” she said.

“Council has received public interest in terms of the initial engagement and approaches to it by the RSL Darwin sub branch prior to it forming a proposal.”

However, plans presented to council indicate consideration has already been put into how the development may impact surrounding environments, businesses and infrastructure.

Concept art of the proposed new Darwin RSL club house on the Esplanade, The Soul of Darwin, which Darwin council is set to provide in-principle support for. Picture: Supplied

“Darwin RSL acknowledges the proximity of other businesses in the vicinity,” RSL Darwin President Stephen Gloster said through the proposal.

“Thus the building will be oriented towards the north and west, facing towards the commemorative and Cenotaph area, with an open shaded veranda offering views of the span of the Esplanade and Darwin Harbour.”

The proposal also includes sound and light mitigating elements, specifically addressing the reduction of disturbance towards the eastern face of the site, where the Darwin Deckchair Cinema is located.

LIMITED TIME: New NT News subscription offer: $1 a week for the first 12 weeks

“Operating parameters, while maintaining profitable business, will be styled to integrate with the (existing) precinct,” Mr Gloster said.

This will include (but is not limited to) opening hours, loud music, functions and gatherings.”

Darwin Council will decide on in-kind support at Tuesday night’s meeting.