Mark Honey

The Kiama Urban Strategy (KUS), the document that provides the strategic planning direction for both residential and future employment development, is to be revised.

“The KUS needs to be revisited and reviewed to make it a relevant template for the future of Kiama,” says Mayor Mark Honey. “It is time to do a complete revision of the 2011 document.”

He says this is not just because virtually all of the identified greenfield sites have already been developed, but because the impact of the wide range of development that has occurred since that time has focused people’s minds on what they want the Municipality to become.

“We need to have Bombo Quarry in our KUS, as that will show how we will be able to fulfil housing targets set by the State Government without losing our village character. It is a tremendous opportunity for us.

“Since I’ve been Mayor I have been advocating the need for long term planning perspective, and developing a new CUS is an important part of that.”

The 2011 KUS was formulated following a community engagement process, the preparation of strategic studies prepared by specialist consultants and a detailed population and housing study. A community panel was commissioned by Council to provide advice key issues.

“A great number of residents got involved in developing the current KUS, and I’m sure even more people will want to have their say this time.

“We can’t stop development, but if we work together we can guide it so the essence of what we love about our area is saved for our grandchildren.”

Developing a new KUS will take time.

Acting General Manager Kerry McMurray says, “A review of the Kiama Urban Strategy requires a resolution from Council.

“Such a review is likely to take between 12 and 18 months and include significant community engagement over and above the opportunities provided
by Council’s planning committee and public exhibition process.”

The process of developing the current KUS, adopted in 2011, began in 2005.