Update April 2024
Hi All,
Just to keep you in the loop.
Over the past couple of weeks I have been communicating with Michael Gencher.
See attached the Notice of Motion, which he will table, I think, at the next council meeting, not sure when.
So our meeting with Rory and co on 5th April did reap rewards. We wait in anticipation for the next step and some progress! It will be interesting.
I also had a call from Miranda Korzy, who had spoken to Louise Kerr, Director Place and Planning, who, it sounded like, was not dismissive of our proposal.
Simon Barlow
Notice of Motion 15.3 Notice of Motion No 14/2024 for Council Meeting 30th April 2024 – To Form a Working Group for Robertson Road Matters and Review of Newport Masterplan
That Council
Resolve:
- To form a working group dedicated to addressing the matters concerning Robertson Road, with the objective of facilitating constructive discussions and progressing solutions. The working group shall be composed of representatives from Council, relevant government agencies, local community organisations, and other key stakeholders.
- To review the Newport Masterplan, with a specific focus on Robertson Road, and to invite key stakeholders associated with ‘Save Robertson Road’ and the Newport community, to actively participate in the review process – to adequately address the needs and concerns of all stakeholders involved.
Background:
Robertson Road, nestled within the heart of Newport, stands as a symbol of the community’s history and potential for growth. Over the years, it has been a focal point for locals, embodying the essence of Newport’s culture, recreation, and commerce. However, recent proposals for development threaten to alter the very fabric of this cherished street, and surrounding precinct.
The “Save Robertson Road” campaign, supported by the Newport Residents Association and many Newport residents, has emerged as a response to these looming changes. Its mission is clear: to preserve the unique charm and character of Robertson Road from the encroachment of modernisation that could irrevocably transform its identity. At the heart of the campaign lies a vision that balances heritage preservation with sensible progress, ensuring that Robertson Road retains its essence while evolving to meet the needs of the community.
Building on decades of advocacy by Newport residents, the Save Robertson Road campaign took flight in 2021, fuelled by a unanimous Mayoral Motion put forth by Michael Regan. This momentum culminated in a pivotal online Zoom gathering, drawing 42 attendees, including the NBC Mayor, Councillors, Senior staff, Rob Stokes, community group representatives, and all pertinent landowners. Community backing has surged with a thriving Facebook group boasting over 1200 members, a survey garnering 1300 responses, and more than 600 submissions contesting the DA for 351 Barrenjoey Rd. The resounding consensus affirms robust support for the campaign’s cause.
Central to this vision is the coordinated development of properties along Robertson Road and its surroundings, in alignment with the Newport Masterplan. Advocates emphasise the importance of a cohesive approach to development, one that respects the area’s heritage and fosters a sense of community cohesion.
Key to the campaign’s success is the involvement of stakeholders in a collaborative effort to realise Robertson Road’s full potential. By adhering to the principles outlined in the 2006 Newport Masterplan, proponents seek to establish a model for development that balances commercial interests with community needs.
However, the path to preserving Robertson Road is not without challenges. Development applications for properties have sparked controversy, with concerns raised about their impact on Robertson Road’s character and the viability of community events.
Expert voices, including architects and sources close to the council, emphasise the need for special consideration in development decisions, urging against a piecemeal approach that could set detrimental precedents. With the support of concerned residents and a commitment to preserving its heritage, Robertson Road stands poised to remain Newport’s vibrant core for generations to come.
The unique character of Robertson Road is its location off the main road, the streetscape of outdoor tables, umbrellas and trees, and the atmosphere created by the restaurants, boutiques and pedestrian traffic. This will be lost if the current DA’s that plan roller door entrances to underground carparks on Robertson Road are approved. It will not only break the continuity of the shop frontages and pavements, but will forever destroy the opportunity for Robertson Road to be closed to traffic and ideally function as a pedestrian plaza. The architectural designs are also unappealing and not in keeping with the coastal village character of the area. We need thoughtful and sensitive development to save this character.
A separate website has been created by Simon Barlow a long term Newport resident. Simon has created this website in an endeavour to get a groundswell of resident support and let our council and State Government representatives know they need to support the community. Simon has also created a Facebook page. Simon was invited to and joined the NRA committee last year and we have welcomed his great input, effort and enthusiasm. Please clink on the links below to update yourself.
The NRA has had a long campaign over many years to ensure that Robertson Rd Newport can continue to hold plaza type events as it has done over the years. Ideally it could become a permanent closed-off village plaza. There have been a number of DA’s submitted, and whilst we have no issue with new developments at this location they need to be in accordance with the community wishes and in accordance with the Newport Masterplan.
Newport Residents Association in conjunction with the ‘Save Robertson Rd campaign’ have launched a new survey focusing specifically on Robertson Road. So if you know the area reasonably well, and want to help your community, completing this survey will be a great way to contribute. It will also inform our elected representatives about what you think! Only 5 to 7 mins to complete, and you will be making a huge difference.
Click on the link to start the survey www.surveymonkey.com/r/RobertsonRoad
HISTORY OF CAMPAIGN AND DA’s – go to our separate posts here
