St Vincent St, Ulladulla: NIMBYS oppose plans for $120m apartments, commercial spaces

A town seemingly littered with NIMBYS are stomping their feet at $120m plans for more than 200 apartments and commercial spaces, saying the construction would “destroy” the character of their coastal haven.

The Ulladulla Precinct is set to bring dozens of affordable units to the coastal town of 17,000. Picture: Supplied

A group of South Coast NIMBYS are pushing back against plans for more than 200 apartments and commercial spaces, arguing they would “destroy the character” of their beachside haven.

Dubbed ‘The Ulladulla Precinct’, the proposal would replace the existing Bunnings Warehouse on Vincent St with multiple three to eight storey buildings, making up more than 200 apartments and ground-floor commercial spaces.

The $120m project, by Canberra-based Flemming Group, awaits approval by the NSW Regional Planning Panel with community submissions closing last month.

Development plans state the construction would ease the town’s housing crisis, however, locals are not sold.

“Multiple storeys are not needed on St Vincent St,” resident Jan Gregory submitted to Shoalhaven Council.

Artist impression of the $120m mixed-use residential, commercial complex. Picture: Supplied

“The building will be a blight on the landscape.”

While acknowledging the need for more housing, Ms Gregory argued retirees preferred “single-storey villas” over high-rise apartments.

131 St Vincent St, Ulladulla will become vacant, as Bunnings moves to 197 Princes Hwy. Picture: Google Maps

She also claimed families want “a house with an enclosed yard”.

Resident Kris Dalton shared similar concerns, warning of traffic and parking pressures.

“I am worried that the current development does not allow for enough parking onsite for residents and their visitors,” she said.

“When people park on the verge due to lack of parking, it makes it very dangerous for residents to leave their driveways with limited viewing.”

The complex would include more than 200 apartments. Picture: Supplied

Glen Garland urged authorities to reject the proposal, saying it would overwhelm the town’s limited public transport.

Despite the backlash, The Flemming Group insisted the project would benefit the community.

“We share the vision to achieve density done well,” a spokesman said.

The developer reiterated 50 units would be available for long-term rental via a community housing provider, while 10 will be sold at reduced prices for key workers and vulnerable community members.

“This is the right location and the right opportunity to make real progress on intergenerational housing affordability,” the spokesman said.

NSW Regional Planning Panel will make a decision on the project later this year.

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Originally published as St Vincent St, Ulladulla: NIMBYS oppose plans for $120m apartments, commercial spaces