Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald has publicly opposed a proposed 14-storey apartment tower, calling it 'far too high' and 'completely out of character' for the town. The development, put forward by Level 33 at Akuna Street, has been referred to the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority as a State Significant Development, bypassing local council approval.
In a media statement, Cr McDonald clarified that the decision rests with Planning Minister Paul Scully, not the council. He confirmed the council has written to the minister expressing community concerns and encouraged residents to do the same. The mayor also revealed that Level 33 has initiated legal proceedings against the council in the Land and Environment Court over its development application, which the council is defending on grounds that the proposal is too high, too bulky, and raises traffic issues.
Separately, plans for the council-owned works depot site in Belvedere Street have also sparked concern. The state government is progressing a rezoning proposal that could allow up to 450 homes and buildings up to eight storeys. Cr McDonald stressed that the current process is only about rezoning, not approving specific designs, and that detailed planning and public consultation will occur later through standard development processes.
Cr McDonald acknowledged community anxiety about change but emphasised the importance of a clear process and community input. He plans to table the council's letter to the minister at the next council meeting.
