Around 380 residential lots are a step closer to being built after Kiama Council has received the development application for Stage 1 of the South Kiama Urban Release Area.

Situated to the west of the Princes Highway between Saddleback Mountain Road to the north and Weir Street to the south, this URA contains 40 hectares of land that will also include public open space, environmental conservation and heritage areas, stormwater and associated infrastructure.

The subdivision and development of the overall URA is being carried out over four stages and the DA for Stage 1, closest to Saddleback Mountain Road, provides for 81 residential lots between 300sqm and 700sqm in size.

“This is the most significant housing development our Municipality has seen for many years and will affect most of us either directly or indirectly,” Mayor Cameron McDonald said.

“I urge everyone, to have a look at what’s proposed, see what you think, and make a submission.”

As part of the application, Saddleback Mountain Road will be upgraded and roads within the subdivision will be constructed, along with footpaths, bicycle shared paths and other infrastructure such stormwater works

Rehabilitation work will be conducted on the riparian corridor, including bank stabilisation, rock batter retaining walls, bioretention basin and revegetation.

A public park just under 2000 square metres will be a major part of the development, including a half basketball court, playground with soft fall areas, shade structures, seating and landscaping.

Kiama Council will ensure the Conservation Management Plan protects heritage items such as Kendalls Cemetery and the existing dry-stone walls.

The Stage 1 development application was placed on public exhibition this week for community feedback up until 5pm on 9 July.

Kiama Council director of planning, environment & communities Ed Paterson said the Development Control Plan for the South Kiama URA would set specific controls for the subdivision and dwelling construction.

“Having a site specific DCP for South Kiama ensures we can get the best possible outcomes from this development, for its future residents, and the wider community,” Paterson said.

“I’d like to thank my planning staff for their efforts getting this DCP in place as well as working with the developers to ensure their plans adhere to the letter and spirit of the DCP.

“Another win for our community is a Planning Agreement we’re negotiating, where the developer will provide land, works and monetary contributions to Council.”

The Planning Agreement, once finalised, will also be put on public exhibition for community feedback.

To view the development application and make a submission visit Kiama Council's website.

The documents can also be viewed at Council’s administration office at 11 Manning Street, Kiama.