The demolition and redevelopment of the Fisherman’s Wharf site on the corner of Memorial Drive and Little Street, Forster, has been given the green light.
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MidCoast Council approved the project, despite the challenges from neighbouring residents and businesses.
The development application (DA) for the demolition of the existing structure, which would be replaced with a two-storey restaurant, cafe and dive shop, was lodged by R.T. Hunter, on behalf of the owner Lormine Pty Ltd.
The restaurant and bar would be located on the top floor, while the building would be constructed wholly over the water.
The proposed hours of operation will be 8am to midnight.
Neighbouring businesses include the Amaroo Cruise wharf, the Red Spot Boatshed and restaurants.
Wharf Street resident, Bryan Barber who lives in a unit overlooking the site, addressed the meeting claiming he would lose his views.
Mr Barber also was concerned about parking – or a lack of it.
He told council parking was already a problem in this area and the development would make it worse.
According to council’s report the site was located in the Forster commercial zone and under the Forster District S94 Contributions Plan, a contribution equivalent to nine car parking spaces could be levied.
S94 contributions were for developments that increased the demand for public amenities and public services.
The owner would be required to pay almost $187,000 in S94 contributions, including $169,500 for parking.
The development had the potential to put Amaroo Cruises out of business, Stacks Law Firm solicitor and Digby Dun said.
Mr Dunn was representing Amaroo owners.
He said the Amaroo skipper foresaw difficulty docking the boat when north-easterly winds prevailed, which they do in summer.
Mr Dunn said a “minor redesign” would avoid conflict.
Fisherman’s Wharf owner, Ronald Hunter told council he has owned the building for 50 years and had been planning the redevelopment for many years.
The architect of the redesign, Kevin Snell said the site “has been a bit of a wreck for some time.”
Council accepted the recommendation to approve the application, subject to conditions. The vote was eight votes for, three against.
