Members in the community have raised alarms over the potential impacts of the Draft Local Housing Strategy, currently on public exhibition. The strategy, originally projected to increase the municipality’s population by a third, now includes the State Government-mandated Springside Hill development. Combined with other existing land available for development, the plan could see nearly 5,000 new lots in Kiama alone, effectively doubling the town’s size and population.

Community members, led by local environmental groups, whilst realising change is inevitable, fear that such extensive development will significantly alter Kiama’s unique character and natural environment.

Howard H Jones, Secretary of the Gerroa Environmental Protection Society, has voiced strong opposition, particularly against the Springside Hill project, which was imposed by the State Government despite opposition from both Kiama Council and residents. 

“This development alone will have irreversible impacts on our scenic landscapes, heritage-listed stone walls, high-quality agricultural land, Spring Creek wetlands, and local biodiversity,” said Mr Jones. “We understand the need for housing growth, but this strategy crosses a line - it is excessive and fails to respect Kiama’s environmental and cultural heritage.”

Environmental and Agricultural Concerns

Kiama’s unique volcanic origins have created fertile soils, lush rainforests, and unique scenic landscapes that have long supported dairy farming. The Draft Strategy, however, threatens to sterilise prime agricultural lands, further reducing future food production capacity at a time when climate change is putting pressure on national food security.

“Our region’s high rainfall, moderate climate, and rich soils make it one of the few areas in NSW where sustainable food production can continue in a changing climate,” Mr Jones explained. “Planners and governments should be protecting these lands, not paving them over with housing estates.”

The submission to Council highlights concerns that the strategy overlooks the long-term environmental, economic, and social consequences of urban expansion. Key areas of concern include the loss of farmlands, the degradation of Kiama’s scenic landscapes and natural environment, and the risk of polluting local wetlands. 

Overdevelopment and Community Impact

The strategy’s projected increase of nearly 5,000 housing lots in Kiama would mean extensive development west of the Kiama Bypass, including land behind Spring Creek and Bombo, along Riversdale Road, and south Kiama near the high school. Residents argue this scale of growth is unsustainable and out of alignment with community expectations.

“This level of development is excessive and doesn’t consider the impact on infrastructure, traffic, and the overall character of Kiama,” said Mr Jones. “We should be focusing on sustainable, well-planned growth that enhances our community, not rapid expansion that disregards our heritage and environment.”

Strengthening Protections

The Gerroa Environmental Protection Society’s submission calls on Council to take a stronger stance in defending Kiama’s environmental and cultural values. It suggests strengthening non-negotiable principles in the strategy, including:

Ensuring heritage places, such as Kiama’s historic stone walls, are preserved in a way that enhances their cultural and landscape value.

Prioritising environmental protection by ensuring development improves rather than diminishes biodiversity.

Recognising and safeguarding high-quality agricultural lands to maintain food production in the face of climate uncertainty.

Alternative Solutions

Instead of widespread greenfield development, the submission advocates for increased urban density, including areas such as the Bombo Quarry, which offers proximity to transport and services without compromising Kiama’s natural and rural landscapes.

Call to Action

With the Draft Housing Strategy open for public feedback, residents are encouraged to make their voices heard. The final decision will shape the future of Kiama’s growth and development, impacting not just its built environment, but also its natural beauty, agricultural viability, and community identity.

Council is expected to review submissions and make amendments before finalising the strategy later this year. In the meantime, community groups and concerned residents continue to advocate for a more balanced and sustainable approach to Kiama’s future development.