The owners of a heritage-listed restaurant site on Keira Street, Wollongong, have submitted a development application to create an outdoor dining area. The site, located at the intersection with Victoria Street, was formerly home to the Rookie restaurant.
The application, lodged with Wollongong City Council, proposes an outdoor deck on the southern side of the building. According to the application, the deck is part of the second stage of work aimed at enhancing usability and upgrading the current restaurant use, while paying homage to the existing structure.
Images of the proposed deck show four tables, each seating four patrons. A large planter will be placed in front to reduce visual impact from the street. The application's statement of environmental effects notes that the alterations are sympathetic to the building's heritage significance and will improve accessibility, functionality, and public engagement.
The proposed development does not conform to council regulations regarding rear setbacks, as it plans to match the existing building's setback. A variation request argues that retaining the current setback maintains consistency with the built character and avoids unnecessary demolition or structural reconfiguration.
The development application is on public exhibition until December 3.
