Highlanders can weigh in on a $23 million development proposed for Sutton Forest.
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The project proposed at 42 Oldbury Road, Sutton Forest, includes tourist and visitor accommodation, a function centre, cafe, bar and helipad.
The development application was lodged by town and regional planning company Bureaucracy Busters on behalf of the Malaysian owner of Southern Highland Wines.
Bureaucracy Busters principal Darren Hogan said the site was purchased by Teo Ah Khing to provide world-class tourist accommodation in the area.
“His vision and project management drive will bring economic benefits to a wide range of stakeholders, including multiple trickle-down economic benefits for other tourist industries, service providers and a wide range of local businesses,” he said.
He said up to 150 local contractors would be employed during construction, with the creation of about 80 full and part-time service jobs if the project proceeded.
Mr Hogan said the site was chosen for its beautiful scenery and proximity to equine establishment The Chase. Although Mr Ah Khing owns both Southern Highland Wines and The Chase, Mr Hogan said they were not proposed to be specifically linked.
An acoustic report, submitted by Blackett Acoustics in regards to the helipad, was based on the assumption that there will be one take off and one landing by a helicopter per day between the hours of 7.00am and 10.00pm. The report determined any noise from a helicopter would comply with noise restriction levels.
A traffic impact and parking assessment from Calibre Consulting found an additional 162 parking spaces would be required at the site to accommodate for the estimated 51 hotel rooms, 28 suites (two, three and four bedrooms), one six-bedroom estate, five serviced apartments, spa centre, swimming pool, plaza, function hall, bar and cafe.
The report determined the development would “not significantly affect” traffic in the immediate vicinity of Southern Highland Wines.
A statement of environmental effects from Bureaucracy Busters reported the development would have no identifiable potential negative impact on water quality or the natural environment of the site.
Neighbouring properties of the development site were made aware of the proposal prior to Christmas. Those wishing to express their opinion about the proposed development can submit a written response to council general manager Ann Prendergast by January 25.
For more information regarding the proposal, visit the DA Tracker at www.wsc.nsw.gov.au, and use the reference number 16/1100. For further enquiries, contact Wingecarribee Shire Council on 4868 0888 between 8.30-4.30pm.