The Kiama Municipal Council has reviewed community feedback on several proposed development sites as part of its Draft Growth and Housing Strategy. Here are the key takeaways:  

 Bombo Quarry Precinct  

The community largely supports the redevelopment of Bombo Quarry as a prime site for additional housing. Its proximity to public transport, the highway, and recreational areas makes it appealing, while its location protects it from strong winds often experienced in higher areas of Kiama. However, the community suggests revising the proposed timeframe for development to 15–20 years to reflect its potential as a long-term growth opportunity.

Dido Street Precinct  

Concerns were raised about the viability of developing the Dido Street area. The Jamberoo Road/Dido Street intersection is frequently blocked during heavy rains due to flooding, potentially exacerbating emergency response challenges. Feedback also highlighted risks associated with increased hardscape in this flood-prone area, particularly regarding a proposed self-sustaining sewerage treatment plant that could become a hazard in flooding events.  

Riversdale Road Precinct  

Community members expressed opposition to developing Riversdale Road due to its potential impact on local farmland, community cohesion, and natural beauty. Concerns about inadequate infrastructure, including water and sewage systems, and the area's vulnerability to strong winds were also noted. A planned transition between rural and urban zones was suggested to preserve Kiama’s character, alongside considering rezoning adjacent smaller lots.

Jamberoo – Golden Valley Way Stage 2  

The Jamberoo Stage 2 development received significant community support, mainly due to the potential relocation of the Jamberoo Community Preschool, which currently faces flooding issues. The developer has proposed donating land for the preschool if the development proceeds. Community members also welcomed the prospect of improved road access and the potential to attract more families and boost local commerce. However, the current housing strategy does not provide a short-term solution for the preschool relocation, and some suggest moving this site into a short-term development strategy.

Next Steps in Growth and Housing Strategy  

The Council outlined the following steps to refine and implement the Growth and Housing Strategy:  

1. Update the Draft Strategy: Incorporate community and stakeholder feedback into the revised draft.  

2. Council Endorsement for Exhibition: Present the revised draft to the Council in February 2025 for endorsement to exhibit it publicly for 28 days.  

3. Public Exhibition: Actively engage with the community during the exhibition period to gather further insights.  

4. Feedback Consideration: Compile feedback from the exhibition period to finalize the strategy.  

5. Final Endorsement: Submit the final strategy for Council approval, including a summary of engagement and its influence on the strategy.  

6. Adoption and Ministerial Review: Formally adopt the strategy and seek endorsement from the Minister for Planning and Public Spaces.  

7. Implementation: Begin implementing the strategy through reviews of the Local Environmental Plan (LEP) and Development Control Plan (DCP), and advocate for infrastructure inclusion in Sydney Water’s program.  

This phased approach ensures that community concerns are addressed and integrated into the final housing strategy to guide Kiama’s sustainable development.