Northern Beaches council’s development application for the alterations and additions to Newport surf life saving club (SLSC) has been refused by the Sydney North planning panel (SNPP).
It is understood Newport SLSC had proposed to build a seawall as a solid barrier to reduce wave forces on the clubhouse as a safety net from severe storm erosion.
The refusal comes after it is believed the SNPP cited 12 issues with the proposal during the September public meeting, claiming the applicant had provided insufficient information to support the project’s design and considerations of the coastline.
Given the importance of the project to the Newport SLSC and the community, the proposal was left pending until the applicant could address the 12 points raised by the SNPP at the next public meeting on 5 October.
With reference to the objects of the Coastal Management Act (2016), It is understood each point considered the suitability of the site, specific to the proposed design and location, with regard to its heritage, car park and open space protection.
While the meeting was a chance for the applicant to focus on these particular concerns, it is understood the SNPP were not satisfied, claiming the applicant inadequately addressed the matters required.