Narrabeen Lakes SC still high and dry
Narrabeen Lakes Sailing Club says it does not want to wait until 2027 for a new $4 million amenities building at Jamieson Park.
The insurance payout of $1.9 million for the original building which was destroyed by fire in 2021 means council will need funding for the shortfall.
The timeline for the project would see construction begin in 2027, if council secures funding. The club has been making do with storage containers to house its sailing fleet and equipment and wants a modular design it had already proposed to save time and money.
“2027 is a long time down the down the track,” said the club’s David Loomes. “We want council to use the $1.9 million now to give us a replacement building. If they won’t accept that, then maybe (they should) stage the development.”
He said council’s design for the new sports amenities building was ‘slightly larger’ than the original clubhouse, even though the club was told that there would only be a ‘like for like’ replacement.
Councillor Vincent de Luca told PL he supported the sailing club’s request for a modular design.
“Further delays will just occasion cost blowouts like we have seen on several other projects,” said Mr de Luca. “If council staff wish to continue with a restaurant and cafe, that can be added at a later date when and if funds become available. I feel very sorry for the club and how this has been handled.”
Council said a modular build would not meet the club’s requirements and wants a building that serves all users into the future.
It also said the site’s flood-prone nature necessitated elevated construction for certain elements of the building, which was difficult to achieve with a modular design.
The concept plan, it said, was based on consultation with key stakeholders and understanding their needs. These plans had undergone community engagement which showed a high level of public support for the proposed building and its design.
Council said it would continue to explore grant opportunities to help fund the shortfall between the insurance payout and the total project cost.