In a recent interview with Kiama Community Radio’s Bernie Hems, Councillor Matt Brown provided updates on a range of issues affecting the local community, including the long-awaited Bombo staircase, plans for a special entertainment precinct, and parking concerns at Woolworths. The interview highlights Council’s challenges, achievements, and goals, underscoring the importance of transparency and communication in local governance.

Bombo staircase nearing completion.

The Bombo staircase, a project that has faced delays and public frustration, is finally seeing progress. Cr Brown explained that uneven stair heights, a key compliance issue, had prevented the staircase from receiving an occupation certificate. He reassured listeners that the contractor is rectifying the problem at no additional cost to Council.

“Shaving off the big stairs, adding height to the shorter ones, it’s all being fixed,” Cr Brown said. While there is no firm reopening date, the project is on track to deliver a safe and fully functional staircase.

A new vision for Kiama’s nightlife

Cr Brown also discussed a proposal to designate parts of Kiama as a special entertainment precinct, allowing businesses more flexibility in operating hours and noise regulations. A working group of local businesses, licensed premises, and residents is helping shape the strategy, which aims to reduce red tape and boost the town’s vibrancy.

Minister John Graham MLC has shown support for the idea, with Cr Brown emphasising its potential to revive Kiama’s night-time economy. “We’ve heard about the success of these precincts in Sydney and Newtown, and we want that for Kiama,” he said.

Parking problems spark debate

The discussion turned to Woolworths’ plans to install a boom gate and introduce a two-hour free parking limit. Cr Brown acknowledged the concerns raised by local workers and business owners about reduced parking availability but noted that Council has not yet been briefed on the proposal.

“I got most of my information about this from The Bugle,” Cr Brown admitted, praising the paper as an essential source of local news. 

When discussing parking turnover issues in Kiama’s town centre, Cr Brown noted, “To keep the shops viable, we need those parking places to turn over. But of course, you can’t have a shopping centre without staff in there - and they need to park somewhere too.”

On the Woolworths car park easement

Cr Brown addressed questions about the easement at the Woolworths car park, explaining its historical and legal context.

“I don’t think we own [the parking spots] as such, but we have a right to use a number of them,” he said, referring to spaces designated as public parking places. Cr Brown described the arrangement as an “historical legal compromise,” noting that when the original Woolworths was built, a promise was made to provide parking spaces for public use. 

This compromise was carried over when the new shopping centre was developed, with signage now indicating which spaces are public parking places. While Cr Brown acknowledged the situation as “a bit of a messy one,” his comments highlighted the ongoing need for clarity and practical solutions around parking in Kiama.

Transparency and accountability in focus

Addressing concerns about past financial mismanagement, Cr Brown outlined Council’s commitment to improved oversight and sustainability. Service reviews of key Council operations, including waste, tourism, and holiday parks, will guide future reforms.

“We’re fixing the problems we inherited and working towards a surplus budget,” he said. He also defended the need for commercial confidentiality in certain matters but called for greater transparency once legal and financial processes are resolved.

Commitment to Blue Haven staff and residents

The transition of Blue Haven’s management to a private provider was another point of contention, particularly regarding the preservation of staff entitlements. Cr Brown stressed Council’s commitment to ensuring fair outcomes for both employees and residents, acknowledging the anxiety caused by the change.

“These staff are doing a professional job, and the residents rely on them,” he said. Cr Brown expressed hope that ongoing negotiations with unions and the new owners would resolve the issue.

From parking dilemmas to financial reforms, Matt Brown’s conversation with Bernie Hems offers valuable insights into the complex issues shaping Kiama’s future.

With The Bugle and Kiama Community Radio continuing to provide reliable coverage, the community remains informed and engaged in these vital discussions. Tune into Bernie Hems show at 9 am on Tuesdays on KCR.