Councillors were unanimous in their decision to amend the MidCoast Council housing strategy along Pebbly Beach, Forster.
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The matter was discussed at the July 14 strategic committee meeting in Taree.
MidCoast Council has proposed reducing building heights along the residential strip from a high to medium density zone, in line with the existing Great Lakes Local Environmental Plan.
Senior land use planner, Sue Calvin said the issue of high density residential zoning along Pebbly Beach was initially raised during the three-month Lake Street planning proposal in late 2020 and earlier this year.
"During the consultation period community members expressed concern over the increased extension of the High-Density Residential zone in the Housing Strategy, particularly around Pebbly Beach," Ms Calvin reported.
"It is important that the MidCoast Housing Strategy reflects the community's expectations for their local area.
The proposed extension of the high-density residential zone in the linear strip along Head Street from Macintosh Street is clearly divisive and upon further consideration does not reflect good planning practice.
- MidCoast Council
"The community are vigorously seeking the opportunity to review the extended application of the High-Density Residential zone in Forster, particularly in the Pebbly Beach area."
According to Mc Calvin's report clear community feedback was received objecting to the extent of the High-Density Residential zone in Forster.
"Specifically, respected community and business leaders from Forster who attended the sessions were not supportive of the proposed expansion along Head Street at Pebbly Beach."
Concerns included a change in the character and aesthetics, traffic congestion and nine-storey buildings.
"The proposed extension of the high-density residential zone in the linear strip along Head Street from Macintosh Street is clearly divisive and upon further consideration does not reflect good planning practice."
The recommendation will be placed on public exhibition for 28 days, as a yet to be announced date.
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