Both surf lifesaving clubs. Both on the foreshore. Just like the superannuation adverts, let’s compare the pair.
The first is the West Beach Surf Life Saving Club which we wrote about in October last year. A comprehensive redevelopment of a prominent, longstanding facility with a new, two-storey design. It received no in-principle objections from the public.
The second is the recent Normanville Surf Life Saving Club redevelopment. The Architects Ink design seeks to replace the existing two-storey clubhouse, including a ground floor kiosk and upper-level café within the complex. Worth noting that the new Surf Club building has a smaller footprint than currently exists, a much larger setback from the adjacent State Heritage listed sand dunes, and protection against sea level rise/climate change.
In stark contrast to the West Beach development, the Normanville proposal attracted more than 500 representations from as far afield as Bungendore in NSW.
In both instances, existing surf lifesaving facilities were being replaced. Building footprints were similar to existing (West Beach slightly larger and Normanville slightly smaller), as was the environmental impact.
In the end, there was the same assessment result for both facilities – approval by the Council/Regional Assessment Panels.
Public notification has an important role in revealing local knowledge. It can also provide a wide range of public opinion about development.
Importantly, the approvals of these developments prove that public notification, whilst important, is not a popularity contest in the development assessment process.
Both community facilities will help continue the great volunteer-driven work that helps to save lives.
