The fate of Kiama’s old nursing home site in Havilah Place remains unclear, even as the council continues to spend an estimated $600,000 plus annually on security for the vacant building.

With no designated date for demolition, concerns are mounting over the ongoing financial burden and lack of direction for the prime piece of real estate in central Kiama.

The old nursing home, once a key aged care facility, is now sitting empty, its facilities unused and deteriorating.

Despite the building no longer serving its intended purpose, the council has employed round-the-clock security, including two guards on shift 24 hours a day, at a reported cost of $35 per hour each.

This level of expenditure has sparked criticism from community members, questioning why the site remains in limbo while funds are being drained to protect an unused structure.

Given its central location, the site holds significant value, and redevelopment options have been floated.

Some experts believe that an eight to ten-storey retirement complex could be a feasible project, catering to retirees looking for a central, convenient lifestyle.

The site’s position within the former quarry means that such a development could proceed with minimal landscape impact while adding much-needed housing stock to Kiama’s property market.

However, the council’s financial struggles raise questions about whether it could afford to undertake such a project or if selling the site to a private developer would be the most viable option.

If the council is unable to fund redevelopment, selling the site could generate significant revenue, with estimates suggesting it could fetch $20 to $30 million.

However, the question remains, what is the best use for the land?

With the ongoing security expenses and no clear plan in place, calls are growing for the council to take decisive action rather than letting the site continue to sit in costly uncertainty.