MYALL COAST residents are being invited to provide feedback on a proposal to develop an apartment complex on controversial beachside land at Sanderling Avenue, Hawks Nest.
An informal drop-in session was held last Wednesday at the Hawks Nest Community Hall by development consultants Mara Consulting, on behalf of developers Core Property Developments and Leric Group.
The developers are currently preparing an environmental impact statement (EIS) for assessment by the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI).
The proposal has been listed as a State Significant Development (SSD), meaning it is assessed by the state government and not MidCoast Council.
Located between Bennetts Beach and the Hawks Nest Golf Club, the proposal would provide 104 homes across three apartment buildings, each up to four storeys high.
The design incorporates landscaped gardens, communal spaces such as pools and gyms, and basement parking on a 1.4-hectare site.
“The site is zoned for medium density housing and is close to shops, services, recreation areas, and the beach,” Mara Consulting states on its project website.
“Its location supports active transport, with walking and cycling paths nearby.”
Attending the drop-in session was local Kathy Poldmaa, who runs the ‘Hawks Nest Development Facebook’ group and keeps fellow residents abreast of updates to the project.
She told NOTA the meeting “showcased many impressive visuals” but lacked substantial information.
Kathy has raised issues with the bulk and scale of the project, height levels exceeding the area’s Local Environmental Plan (LEP) zonings, a potential increase in traffic, and flooding concerns.
“With the increase in flooding, the proposal for underground parking raises environmental concerns, similar to issues recently faced with other developments,” she said.
Kathy said the development does not match the character of the Hawks Nest area, particularly if it is visible from the beach.
“This proposed four-storey development will significantly impact the visual attraction of our beach area,” she said.
“The height of the building will disrupt the natural landscape and obstruct sightlines, diminishing the scenic view that both residents and visitors cherish.
“This change could negatively affect the overall ambience of the beach environment and may deter tourists who are drawn to the area for its beauty.
“The proposed development is too large for our town. Its scale does not fit with the character of our community and could overwhelm our existing infrastructure.”
Kathy also believes the development will do little to ease housing pressures in the region.
“We need homes for families, not more holiday units,” she said.
“This development prioritises short-term economic gains without considering long-term community impacts and sustainability.”
She is encouraging community members to voice their opinions via Mara Consulting.
“Once the matter is submitted to the state government, it may be too late to make our concerns known, although we do get another chance to submit,” Kathy said.
“What we present to the consultants will then be forwarded to the developer.
“The developer is expected to respond to the consultants, and their response and our concerns will be documented in a report that will be presented to the state government.
“If this development concerns you, please share your thoughts now.”
Mara Consulting expects to lodge the EIS with DHPI by late 2025 with a determination expected by early 2026.
If approved, they say construction would start in 2026.
To have your say, take the survey at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/SANDERLING.
You can also call 02 49654317 or email sanderling@maraconsulting.com.au.
By Doug CONNOR
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