Lake Macquarie City Council has begun investigating the feasibility of a compulsory acquisition of the Cedar Mill site, the former Morisset Golf Course owned by Newcastle developer Winarch Group. The move follows a notice of motion submitted by West Ward Liberal councillor Jason Pauling, which was supported by his colleagues.
A council spokesperson said it will take approximately three months to complete the work and prepare a memo for councillors outlining the costs and implications of such action. The spokesperson added that it is premature to speculate on timeframes for an actual compulsory acquisition before the feasibility assessment is complete.
The council confirmed that Winarch Group contacted them for an informal discussion following the endorsement of Cr Pauling's motion. Winarch CEO Kyle McKendry reiterated the developer's commitment to building an entertainment venue at Morisset but could not provide a timeframe for a modified development application due to delays in Transport for NSW's Mandalong Road upgrade.
Cr Pauling stated he still hopes the Cedar Mill project succeeds but declined to meet privately with the developer, calling it 'grossly inappropriate.' He expressed willingness to engage in a public forum. Meanwhile, Transport for NSW is progressing a $76 million upgrade of Mandalong Road and Dora Street, with construction expected to start later this year and completion by the end of 2029.
