The Kiama Council Meeting on 18 February 2025 covered significant issues, including the Draft Housing Strategy, the Gerringong Surf Life Saving Club (GSLSC) kiosk compliance, the coastal walkway extension, and the revitalisation of Kiama Harbour.

Due to time constraints, some items were deferred to an extraordinary meeting on 24 February.

Draft Housing Strategy – Extended Public Consultation

The Draft Housing Strategy (Version 2) was debated extensively, particularly regarding the Springside Hill development and infrastructure concerns.

A motion was put forward to defer the decision, arguing that more time was needed to review community concerns.

Questions were raised about infrastructure readiness, particularly roads, schools, and public transport.

It was clarified that Springside Hill had already been approved for rezoning by the State Planning Panel, meaning its removal would limit Council’s control over planning decisions.

Council voted to extend the The Draft Housing Strategy (V 2) public consultation period from 28 to 60 days to allow for greater community input before finalising the strategy.

Gerringong Surf Club Kiosk Compliance and Lease Issues

Lease and compliance issues surrounding the GSLSC’s kiosk and clubhouse operations were discussed.

• The kiosk was found to exceed the 10-square-metre limit for volunteer-run facilities under Kiama’s Local Environmental Plan.
• The kiosk had been sublet without council approval, a breach of the Local Government Act 1993.
• Accessibility concerns were raised, as the public toilet lacks a compliant pathway.
• A motion was introduced to reclassify the land, while an alternate motion focused on compliance before considering reclassification.

Outcome: A report was approved to examine the history and compliance of the GSLSC kiosk, reviewing lease conditions, land classification, and planning matters before further action.

Coastal Walkway and Harbour Revitalisation

The coastal walkway extension from Gerringong to Gerroa was discussed, with debate over whether to pursue easements or compulsory land acquisition.

It was agreed that affected landowners would be engaged while state funding opportunities are considered.

A working group was approved to explore plans for Kiama Harbour revitalisation, with a focus on stakeholder engagement rather than immediate funding allocations.

Deferred Items – To Be Discussed on 24 February

Due to time constraints, the following items were held over for discussion:

• Confidential agenda items
• Showground Management Plan Working Group
• Shoalhaven and Kiama Coastal Pathway project updates

The meeting concluded at 8:13 PM, with further discussions scheduled for next week.