Agenda of Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee

Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee

Meeting Date: Wednesday, 06 October, 2021

Location: Teams Meeting (Remotely)

Time: 4.00pm

Please note: Council’s Code of Meeting Practice permits the electronic recording and broadcast of the proceedings of meetings of the Council which are open to the public. Your attendance at this meeting is taken as consent to the possibility that your image and/or voice may be recorded and broadcast to the public.

Agenda

1. Apologies

2. Confirmation of Minutes

· Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee - 4 August 2021................................ 1

3. Declarations of Interest

4. Presentations

CBD21.32... DPOP Projects of Interest

Micaiah Tipton will give a presentation for the update for the DPOP Projects of Interest

5. Reports

CBD21.33... Committee Actions Report for Ongoing/Completed Items............................. 7

CBD21.34... Review of Terms of Reference - Working Groups - Membership................ 16

CBD21.35... Update - Nowra CBD Planning Controls Review......................................... 25

CBD21.36... Budget Update October 2021....................................................................... 28

CBD21.37... Project Proposal – Feasibility Investigation - Use of Smart Poles in the Nowra CBD...................................................................................................................... 31

CBD21.38... Project Proposal – Investigation & Design - Pedestrian Crossing - Junction Street Nowra............................................................................................................ 34

CBD21.39... Project Proposal - Traffic Master Plan - North St Nowra............................. 37

CBD21.40... Discussion - Alcohol Prohibited Areas - Collection of Supporting Information 40

6. General Business

CBD21.41... Action Plan - Verbal Update

Council resolved as follows on 27 July 2021:

That Council

1. Receive the report for information.

2. Endorse the ‘Revitalising Nowra Action Plan 2021-23’ (Attachment 1) as the basis for the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee’s activities for the period 2021-2023.

3. Maintain the annual budget allocation of $500,000 to support the implementation of the Action plan over the next three years and the principle that any unspent funds from the yearly allocation is rolled over to the next financial year to enable the Committee to strategically plan, respond flexibly and also undertake other relevant activities.

4. Commend the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Committee on the initiative of preparing the Action Plan.

Council staff will provide a verbal update on the Action Plan at the meeting.

Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee – Wednesday 06 October 2021

Page

Membership

Mr James Caldwell - Chairperson

Clr Jo Gash

Clr Patricia White

Clr John Wells

Director, City Services or delegate

Director, City Futures or delegate

Mr Scott Baxter

Mr Brendan Goddard

Mr George Parker

Mr Wesley Hindmarch

Ms Alison Henry

Mr Christopher Williamson

Ms Catherine Shields

Non-voting members

All other Councillors

Quorum – Eight (8) members

Role

Note: Tasks in relation to 1.4 will not be undertaken by Councillors

For the purpose of this Terms of Reference, Councils annual Capital Works Budget which is defined as any Special Rate on the CBD (currently $500,000) plus any top up funding (such as grants or loans obtained by council or other council budgetary allocations) that Council provides to deliver a project initiated by Special Rate Funding.

Note: Any other Capital Works Funding in excess of $100,000 within the CBD will be discussed with the Committee prior to expenditure of funding.

1.1. Recommend to Council possible refinement of, and improvements to, the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy as the committee considers appropriate.

1.2. Develop a list of projects (with estimated costings) for Council to consider priorities over a rolling three year time frame, that will assist in achieving the ten elements of the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy. The list is to be presented to an Ordinary Meeting of Council in February each year, and thus adopted by the Council.

1.3. Make a formal submission to Council’s annual capital works budget as it relates to the Nowra CBD, in accordance with Council’s budgeting process.

1.4. Monitor the expenditure of Council’s annual capital works budget as it relates to the Nowra CBD, in particular;

1.4.1. Approving design plans and specifications at the preliminary concept stage and prior to the detailed drafting and then at final approval stage.

1.4.2. In cases where the General Manager (or delegate) determines that capital works within the Nowra CBD, will be tendered out, the Committee Chair (or delegate) will approve the tender documentation before tenders are advertised.

1.4.3. The Committee Chair and delegate are to participate on tender evaluation panels for capital expenditure in the Nowra CBD.

1.4.4. Assign a Project Steering Working Group to endorse the payment of progress claims and endorse the approval of variations, for capital expenditure in the Nowra CBD.

1.4.5. In the case where Council staff undertake substantial capital expenditure (greater than $150,000) in the Nowra CBD, the Committee will receive a report outlining progress (including expenditure updates) and plans at each of the Committee’s Meetings.

1.5. Act as a communication conduit between Council and the CBD stakeholders in respect to the ten elements within the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy and approved Capital Works within the Nowra CBD with reasonable support from Council, at Council’s expense, as determined by the General Manager.

1.6. Assist Council in advocating to the community the adopted list of projects that seek to deliver on the ten elements of the CBD Revitalisation Strategy.

1.7. Provide a report to Council each quarter outlining the year to date expenditure of Council’s annual capital works budget as it relates to the Nowra CBD and present a report to an Ordinary Meeting of Council in August each year that explains the capital expenditure and any non-expenditure, for the previous financial year.

1.8. Consult with relevant stakeholders as needed.

Delegated Authority

1. To expend the funds allocated by Council annually from the Business – Nowra subcategory (currently $500,000) to the CBD Nowra Revitalisation Strategy Committee, as the committee deems appropriate in accordance with objectives of the Nowra CBD Strategic Plan.

2. To establish Working Groups as deemed appropriate.

3. To promote the advantages of the CBD inside and outside the Local Government area, including making press releases and promoting the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy and its projects.

4. Council will provide “in-kind” support to the committee in relation to

a. Project Design and Documentation

b. Facilitation of meetings

c. Preparation of reports for the Committee consideration

Nowra Revitalisation Committee - Sub/Working Groups

	Events / Christmas Promotions	Infrastructure (including Wayfinding signs)	Writers / Historic Walk	Mural Proposal – Bonnie Greene	Banners / Perm Lighting	Logo / Communications	Architectural Ideas Comp
James Caldwell (Chair)	Yes	Yes	Yes		Yes	Yes	Yes
Clr Gash	Yes				Yes
Clr White	Yes				Yes		Yes
Clr Wells						Yes	Yes
Wesley Hindmarch		Yes		Yes		Yes	Yes
Scott Baxter		Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Brendan Goddard		Yes				Yes	Yes
George Parker	Yes
Alison Henry	Yes
Christopher Williamson
Catherine Shields
Robert Domm			Yes				Yes or Rep
Paul Keech		Yes			Yes
SCC Contact (Director / Rep)	Kate Crowe	TBC	Gordon Clark		TBC	Kate Crowe

Minutes of the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee

Meeting Date: Wednesday, 4 August 2021

Location: Council Chambers, City Administrative Centre, Bridge Road, Nowra

Time: 4.06pm

The following members were present:

Clr Patricia White – Acting Chairperson

Mr James Caldwell (Remotely)

Clr John Wells

Mr Craig Exton – Delegate for Director City Services

Mr Robert Domm - Director City Futures (Remotely)

Mr Scott Baxter (Remotely)

Mr Brendan Goddard

Mr Wesley Hindmarch

Ms Alison Henry (Remotely)

Ms Catherine Shields (Remotely) – arrived 4.40pm

Others present:

Mr Gordon Clark – Strategic Planning Manager

Mr Micaiah Tipton – Manager Design Services

Ms Melissa Dunn – Unit Manager – District Engineer – Central (Remotely)

Election of Chairperson

RESOLVED (Clr Wells / Wesley Hindmarch)

That Clr White be appointed as the Acting Chairperson for the meeting of Wednesday 4 August 2021.

CARRIED

1. Apologies / Leave of Absence

An apology was received from Christopher Williamson and Clr Gash.

2. Confirmation of the Minutes

RESOLVED (Clr Wells / James Caldwell)

That the Minutes of the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee held on Wednesday 09 June 2021 be confirmed.

CARRIED

3. Declarations of Interest

Nil

Presentations

CBD21.22 Presentation - Capital Works Program

HPERM Ref: D21/298233

Micaiah Tipton provided a PowerPoint presentation on Shoalhaven City Council Capital Projects within the Nowra CBD as listed in the 2021/22 Delivery Plan and Operational Plan.
It was noted that the final report from Playscore will be forwarded to members.

A copy of the presentation will be forwarded to the members.

CBD21.23 Presentation - Update on Budget and Proposed Expenditure

HPERM Ref: D21/298245

Micaiah Tipton provided an update on the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee budget and proposed expenditure.

Members raised the question regarding the total budget allocation and the rates paid. It was advised that confirmation of this would be made by inviting Kevin Voegt to the next meeting.

Reports

CBD21.24 Committee Actions Report for Ongoing/Completed Items

HPERM Ref: D21/297700

The Committee discussed the Action List and made the following comments:

· CBD21.9 - Additional Item - CBD Lighting - Investigate - LED - Poles - Morisons Arcade - Report Required: Reported in Agenda – see CBD21.26 – Recommended for completion and removal.

· CBD21.11 - Revitalising Nowra Action Plan 2021 - 2023 - Adoption - Preparation Work - Working Groups - Action Plan Manager – Note Action to remain open:

o Part 1 - Completed

o Part 2 - To be actioned

o Part 3 - To be actioned

o Part 4 - Completed (27 July 2021 Ordinary Meeting)

o Part 5 - Need to establish working groups - Paul Keech will bring up discussion at the next meeting in relation to the Working Groups

o Part 6 - To be actioned – aim to report back to the next meeting

· CBD21.13 - Proposed Membership - Stockland Nowra - Rates - Ratepayers Association – Report Required – Reported on the Agenda: Recommended for completion and removal

· CBD21.15 - Investigation - Alcohol Prohibited Areas - Egans Lane & Stewart Place Car Park - Nowra CBD (MIN20.902) - Form Working Group - Application – Evidence: It is suggested that a Working Group be formed, remain open.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the:

1. Outstanding/Ongoing Action report be received for information;

2. Following completed items in the Action List attached to the report be removed from the listing:

a. CBD21.7 - Additional Item - Berry Street Pavers - Investigate - Cost - Staff - Contractor - Report Required

b. CBD21.10 - Additional Item - CBD Walkaround

c. CBD21.14 - Nowra CBD Historical Walk Interpretive Signage Project - Finalisation and Outcomes - Working Group - Investigate - Options - Report received

d. CBD21.16 - Blister Costs in Berry St Nowra & Financial Update - Nowra CBD Revitalisation Funds - Junction - Worrigee - Tender – Contractor

e. CBD20.24 - Additional Item - Alcohol Prohibited / Free Area - Laneways off Egans Lane & Stewart Pl Car Park - Investigation - Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee

RESOLVED (Brendan Goddard / Alison Henry)

That the:

1. Outstanding/Ongoing Action report be received for information;

2. Following completed items in the Action List attached to the report be removed from the listing:

a. CBD21.7 - Additional Item - Berry Street Pavers - Investigate - Cost - Staff - Contractor - Report Required

b. CBD21.10 - Additional Item - CBD Walkaround

c. CBD21.14 - Nowra CBD Historical Walk Interpretive Signage Project - Finalisation and Outcomes - Working Group - Investigate - Options - Report received

d. CBD21.16 - Blister Costs in Berry St Nowra & Financial Update - Nowra CBD Revitalisation Funds - Junction - Worrigee - Tender – Contractor

e. CBD20.24 - Additional Item - Alcohol Prohibited / Free Area - Laneways off Egans Lane & Stewart Pl Car Park - Investigation - Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee

f. CBD21.9 - Additional Item - CBD Lighting - Investigate - LED - Poles - Morisons Arcade - Report Required

g. CBD21.13 - Proposed Membership - Stockland Nowra - Rates - Ratepayers Association – Report Required

CARRIED

CBD21.25 Report Back - Current Rates Paid - Stockland and Nowra CBD Generally

HPERM Ref: D21/299333

Note: Catherine Shields arrived at 4.40pm

The Committee discussed the report and the following comments were made:

Gordon Clark suggested that an invitation be extended to Stockland Nowra to come and provide an update every 3-4 meetings.

James Caldwell will take the information back to the CBD Ratepayers Association.

Sara McMahon – Use the functionality of the Get Involved page to invite the CBD community/retailers to talk/provide feedback to the Committee.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the:

1. Report back on the current rates paid by Stockland and other owners in the Nowra CBD be received for information.

RESOLVED (Clr White / Brendan Goddard)

That:

1. The report back on the current rates paid by Stockland and other owners in the Nowra CBD be received for information.

2. Stockland be advised when the next vacancy arises on the Committee.

3. Guidelines be placed on the Get Involved page on the acceptance of Deputations to the Committee from relevant persons on issues and projects that the Committee currently has in place. Noting that the issues raised are to be discussed with the Chair and Directors for approval prior to being placed on the agenda.

CARRIED

CBD21.26 Nowra CBD Lighting - Investigate LED Poles - Morisons Arcade

HPERM Ref: D21/306837

Craig Exton addressed the meeting and provided a verbal update.

Note: Council is trialling higher intensity lights to see if they will be suitable for Junction Street.

Part 3 of the recommendation, the meeting is yet to be organised.

James Caldwell noted there is a minimum standard of lighting and the lighting is the responsibility of the owners of the arcade.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee.

1. Note for information:

a. That the sphere lights on the black poles in Junction Street are being replaced by LED lights.

b. That the private company FM Morison Pty Ltd is responsible for lighting in Morisons Arcade as proprietor of the building constructed in the airspace above the footway.

2. Request Council to investigate and enact any compliance or enforcement mechanisms available to Council that will result in improvement in the lighting levels in Morisons Arcade.

3. Attend a meeting / demonstration of higher intensity LED lights with Council staff to assess and provide feedback on the possible use of higher intensity LED lights in Junction Street.

RESOLVED (Clr Wells / Wesley Hindmarch)

That the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee.

1. Note for information:

a. That the sphere lights on the black poles in Junction Street are being replaced by LED lights.

b. That the private company FM Morison Pty Ltd is responsible for lighting in Morisons Arcade as proprietor of the building constructed in the airspace above the footway.

2. Request Council to investigate and enact any compliance or enforcement mechanisms available to Council that will result in improvement in the lighting levels in Morisons Arcade.

3. Attend a meeting / demonstration of higher intensity LED lights with Council staff to assess and provide feedback on the possible use of higher intensity LED lights in Junction Street.

CARRIED

GENERAL BUSINESS

CBD21.27 Additional Item - Local Government Election and Committee Arrangements and Confirmation of Rates/Budget

Sara McMahon addressed the meeting and advised that the Local Government Elections scheduled for 4 September had been postponed to 4 December 2021. The current Councillors will be extended. The Call Meeting in September where Council reaffirms its Committee Membership won’t happen now until January 2022.

A Committee Meeting will be scheduled for October/November.

In relation to the question raised regarding the allocation of funding for the Committee, the following resolution was made by Council on 27 March 2018:

2. Following the workshop, Council allocate a sum of up to $500,000 p.a. for the remaining term of the current Council, (indexed annually to Rate Peg amount), to the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee to implement the strategy and action plan identified at the workshop.

CBD21.29 Additional Item - CBD Promotions - Halloween and Christmas

Alison Henry provided an update on CBD promotions noting she is waiting on 2 quotes regarding CBD Christmas promotion for 2021 and will bring those to Committee. Another quote from Monica is for a CBD promotion for Halloween, as this falls on a Sunday and will bring this quote to the Committee.

CBD21.30 Additional Item - Working Group Discussion - Wider Diversity

Wes Hindmarch addressed the meeting and raised that when the discussion is held in relation to the Working Groups, that the Working Groups have a wider diversity to allow for the opportunity to invite experts to in specialised fields to provide input.

Clr White advised that Paul Keech will bring the discussion on Working Groups to the next meeting.

CBD21.31 Additional Item - CBD Action Plan Distribution

Note: Alison Henry left the meeting at 5.10pm during discussion on this item.

Catherine Shields raised the question regarding the Action Plan being distributed to members of the CBD and how best to communicate the Plan.

Gordon Clark advised that the Get Involved Page has been established (https://getinvolved.shoalhaven.nsw.gov.au/revitalisation). If members wish to stay up to date, they can subscribe to receive regular updates. Members requested to let their networks know about this as well.

The Junction Court Plan will be fed out to the broader CBD. There is more to come on the Place Manager.

There being no further business, the meeting concluded, the time being 5.15pm.

Clr Patricia White

ACTING CHAIRPERSON

Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee – Wednesday 06 October 2021

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CBD21.34 Review of Terms of Reference - Working Groups - Membership

HPERM Ref: D21/407658

Department: Business Assurance & Risk

Approver: Paul Keech, Director - City Services

Attachments: 1. Review Terms of Reference ⇩ cover)

Reason for Report

To provide the Committee an opportunity to commence a review of the Terms of Reference and thus recommend a revised Terms of Reference for the Council to consider.

Recommendation

That the Committee appoint a Working Group under the Current Terms of Reference to review the Terms of Reference and prepare a draft revised Terms of Reference for the committee to consider recommending to Council. The working group is to consist of:

The Current Committee Chair – Jock Caldwell

Committee Member – Cr Patricia White

Committee Member – Director City Services

Options

Nil

Background

The current Terms of Reference were adopted on the 22 September 2020 and were set down for a review on the 1 December 2021.

The current Terms of Reference was formed after much debate and workshopping and was a substantial rewrite of the previous document.

The current Terms of Reference have been a key ingredient in the Committees recent “success” and much has been achieved under the current Terms of Reference.

Consideration

The following aspects of the current Terms of Reference could be revised.

1. References to the annual budget allocation (currently $500,000) to be amended to reflect the rate-pegged increases in the budget allocation.

2. Review the membership criteria to better reflect the range of stakeholders that are engaged in the activities of the Committee and the inclusion of Councillors;

Possible amendments could include the following;

Voting Members

· Three Councillors

· Council’s CEO (or Delegate)

· ~~Director of City Services~~

· ~~Director of City Futures~~

· ~~Two (2) Community members (non-business operator or CBD property owner)~~

· ~~One (1)~~ Two (2) Nowra CBD Retail/Business operators (non-CBD property owner)

· Two (2) Nowra CBD Property Owners

· Two (2) Nowra CBD Business owner/operator

· ~~One (1)~~ Two (2) Nowra CBD Business Chamber representative

Removal of members

After receiving three separate apologies in a calendar year to a Scheduled Nowra CBD Revitalisation Committee by a Committee Member the Committee Chair will write to the Committee member asking them to reconfirm their interest in the committee and their ability to serve the committee.

After receiving a further apologies to a Scheduled Nowra CBD Revitalisation Committee by a Committee Member the Committee Chair (if decided by the committee) will write to the Committee member asking them to show cause as to why their position should not be declared vacant and a replacement committee member be sought. The Council are to consider the response to the Show Cause and a recommendation of a way forward from the Committee

3. Amend Section Four – Working Groups to include Sub Committees and define the key Working Groups. An example of the possible change could be;

4. Subcommittees AND WORKING GROUPS

4.1. Two Subcommittees are to be established to consider the following matters and make decisions as delegated by the Committee in accordance with the Council adopted Terms of Reference. Each Subcommittee to comprise three members:

The Committee Chair

A committee member (not a Councillor)

A member of Council staff

The two subcommittees to be formed are:

Governance and Communications Sub Committee

Matters for consideration

· Terms of Reference

· Committee Membership

· Strategic Plan Monitoring

· Promotion of the Committee

· Engagement with the CBD

· Lobbying for Grants

Finance and Works Subcommittee

Matters for consideration

· Capital Budget submissions (rolling three years plan)

· Annual Report to Council (August)

· Quarterly Reporting

· Maintenance Inspections

· Accessibility

· Project Approvals

4.2. Two Working Groups are established to investigate, develop, and conduct Events, Promotions and Community Projects for funding by the CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee. Each working group to comprise of three members:

Two Committee members

A member of Council staff

The two working groups to be formed are:

Events and Promotions - (Includes Councillor Involvement)

Matters for consideration

· Christmas

· Easter

· Advertising the CBD

· Other similar matters

Community Projects - (Includes Councillor Involvement)

Matters for consideration

· Murals

· Walks

· Competitions

· Other similar

4.3. The Council staff member will be the point of contact between Council staff and the Working Group for general day to day updates,

4.4. The Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee members are invited to attend and participate in any Working Group meeting/activity,

4.5. The Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee Working Groups members are to be notified in respect to any meeting(s) pertaining to CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee projects and invited to attend.

4. Various wording changes – Attachment 1 provides some tracked changes that would need to be considered if the above ideas were (or similar) were incorporated.

Community Engagement

Nil

Policy Implications

Nil

Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee – Wednesday 06 October 2021

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CBD21.35 Update - Nowra CBD Planning Controls Review

HPERM Ref: D21/411841

Department: Strategic Planning

Approver: Gordon Clark, Director - City Futures

Reason for Report

Update the Committee on the commencement of the review of planning controls in the Nowra CBD / commercial core area, as resolved by Council on 11 May 2021.

The review and subsequent response will help to ensure that the controls remain current and are able to continue to assist with the ongoing and future revitalisation of Shoalhaven’s key regional centre. This will include considering opportunities for further residential development in the CBD, such as identifying key locations where increased height could be considered/pursued, to inform a possible future Planning Proposal to amend Shoalhaven Local Environmental Plan (LEP) 2014.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the Committee:

1. Receive the update report on the review of planning controls in Nowra CBD / commercial core area for information.

2. Receive a further update report on the outcomes of the review at the appropriate point, before Council proceeds with any Planning Proposal to amend relevant controls in Shoalhaven Local Environmental Plan 2014.

Options

1. As recommended.

Implications: this report updates the Committee on the commencement of the review of planning controls in the Nowra CBD / commercial core area as resolved by Council at the 11 May 2021 Development & Environment Committee meeting.

2. Make an alternate resolution.

Implications: Will depend on the nature of the alternate resolution.

Background

The current high level LEP mapped building height controls in the Nowra CBD / commercial core were introduced via an amendment in the 2017 that essentially resulted from the NSW Government’s Standard LEP Instrument. The process to add these controls to the LEP commenced in early 2014 and was informed by detailed urban design work undertaken for Council by Studio GL Pty Ltd.

The current building heights are 12 metres (M), 15 metres (Q1) and 20 metres (Q) and these are shown on the following map:

Figure 1. Maximum building heights in the Nowra CBD (B3 & B4 zones)

The current heights generally equate to the following in terms of storeys:

• 12m = 3 storeys

• 15 m = 4 storeys

• 20 m = 5/6 storeys

The LEP height controls are also supported by a detailed chapter in the Shoalhaven Development Control Plan (DCP) 2014 – Chapter N8: Nowra CBD Urban Design Development Controls.

Since 2017 some resulting development has eventuated, such as the apartment complex in Graham Street, Nowra. Interest is however now being received from landowners/developers for possible redevelopment proposals that, in some cases, would exceed the current planning controls (e.g. building height). Such proposals seek to leverage recent changes in the property market locally and propose the delivery of additional residential housing within the Nowra CBD. This could potentially result in Council receiving proponent-initiated Planning Proposal (PP) requests to amend the planning controls on a ‘site-by-site’ basis.

Other changes since the commencement of Shoalhaven LEP 2014 (for example COVID-19, significant infrastructure projects and increasing migration from Sydney to Shoalhaven) are also now influencing development opportunities in the Nowra CBD.

The priorities and actions relating to the Nowra CBD in the recently released Illawarra-Shoalhaven Regional Plan 2041 and Council’s Local Strategic Planning Statement also provide a basis for reviewing and reconsidering the planning controls in Nowra CBD.

As a result, Council resolved at the 11 May 2021 Development & Environment Committee meeting to commence a holistic review of the planning controls applicable to the Nowra CBD, including building height, with a particular focus on the commercial core area (B3 zoned), to identify whether changes are needed in potential key locations (e.g. Egan’s Lane and Stewart Place car parks and adjoining land) to help strengthen, activate and support appropriate redevelopment, including residential uses. This will help ensure that the controls are forward thinking.

Reviewing the planning controls in a managed way is preferrable to considering ad-hoc PP requests that seek to amend the planning controls on a site-by-site basis.

The review will include relevant technical studies (urban design / visual impact assessment, economic feasibility analysis and infrastructure/servicing) and community/stakeholder input which will provide the evidence needed to support any proposed changes to controls, such as increased building height in certain key locations, in SLEP 2014 and/or the DCP.

Community Engagement

Council is currently inviting initial Expressions of Interests (EOI) from any key stakeholders, including major CBD landholders, development industry representatives and peak bodies, to help identify potential key sites/locations in Nowra CBD that should be specifically considered in the review. Details of the EOI process are on Council’s public exhibitions webpage and were included in a media release on 15 September 2021.

Further stakeholder and community consultation will occur during the review/preparation of technical studies and as part of any subsequent PP seeking to amend SLEP 2014 and/or the DCP.

Policy Implications

The review will help deliver upon identified goals / objectives relevant to Nowra CBD that are established within the Illawarra Shoalhaven Regional Plan 2041, Shoalhaven Local Strategic Planning Statement and Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy, including:

· Removing existing planning barriers to increased residential development

· Providing more affordable housing options and mixed densities, e.g. apartments, townhouses, within walking distance of work, shops, services and facilities.

· Activating street frontages and public spaces

· Supporting the growth of Nowra CBD as Shoalhaven’s key regional centre

Financial Implications

The review when it commences in earnest will be funded from the Strategic Planning recurrent budget.

Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee – Wednesday 06 October 2021

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CBD21.36 Budget Update October 2021

HPERM Ref: D21/410581

Department: Technical Services

Approver: Paul Keech, Director - City Services

Attachments: 1. Budget Update - October 2021 - Nowra CBD ⇩

Reason for Report

To provide an update on the Nowra CDB Revitalisation Strategy Committee Budget.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee note for information:

1. That $0 has been spent since the last meeting of the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee budget update.

2. The total year to date spend for the 2021/22 financial year is $0 of the available budget of $1,314,255

3. A summary of expenditure is in the attachment to this report D21/413655

4. Properties within the Nowra CBD pay the ‘Business Nowra’ rate, this rate is above that of the ‘Business Commercial / Industrial’ rate that applies to businesses outside of the Nowra CBD. The ‘Business Nowra’ rate gets collected and allocated to Council’s General Fund income the same way as any other rate does. Currently Council allocates from its general fund $500,000 plus the increase due to the rate peg (MIN18.227) to fund the Nowra CDB Revitalisation Strategy Committee projects and initiatives.

Background

This report provides an update to the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee of budget spending compared to the 3-year action plan that was endorsed by council on 20/07/2021 MIN21.540. A summary of the Budget is attached D21/413655.

Expenditure

Nil

Income

In accordance with Council MIN18.227 which states that:

1. Council and the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee participate in a workshop to develop a strategy and action plan to optimise the functioning of the Committee as it addresses its task of revitalising the Nowra CBD.

The Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee’s budget has been increased by $49,748 to keep in line with the rate peg amount adjusted for previous years. This was calculated as shown below.

Amount if allocated with rate peg continuously applied since the 2018 Minute
Year Rate Peg	2017/18	2018/19 2.3%	2019/20 2.7%	2020/21 2.6%	2021/22 2.0%
Base (adjusted base)	$500,000	$500,000	$511,500	$525,311	$538,969
Rate Peg Increase	$0	$11,500	$13,811	$13,658	$10,779
Adjusted total	$500,000	$511,500	$525,311	$538,969	$549,748

Amount in 21/22 budget					$500,000
				Additional Budget	$49,748

Consultation

The creation of this report was assisted by the Director City Performance and the Chief Financial Officer.

Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee – Wednesday 06 October 2021

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CBD21.37 Project Proposal – Feasibility Investigation - Use of Smart Poles in the Nowra CBD

HPERM Ref: D21/413208

Department: Technical Services

Approver: Paul Keech, Director - City Services

Attachments: 1. Project Proposal - Feasibility Investigation - Use of Smart Poles - Nowra CBD ⇩

Reason for Report

To allow the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee to consider endorsing and funding the Feasibility Investigation – Use of Smart Poles in the Nowra CBD.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee:

1. Endorse Project Proposal for a Feasibility Investigation into the Use of Smart Poles in the Nowra CBD as detailed in D21/413205 with the following scope:

Scope - Investigate and report on the feasibility of:

a. Retrofitting the existing poles in junction street with:

i. Under awning LED lights with colour change and pattern capabilities

ii. Speakers

iii. Improved Street Lighting

b. Council providing free wi-fi in the CBD area.

c. Rolling out the improvements in stages

2. Allocate $12,000 from the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee Budget to deliver the project scope.

Options

1. Adopt as recommended

Implications: The project can commence

2. The committee could choose not to fund the project.

Implications: The project will not proceed at this stage and will be considered on merit with all other projects across the Shoalhaven for funding in Councils future financial years Delivery Plan and Operational Plans.

A resolution for this option would be (in part)

1. Does not choose to fund the Project Proposal for a Feasibility Investigation into the Use of Smart Poles in the Nowra CBD as detailed in D21/413205.

Note: if the Committee adopted option two, this suggested resolution would be improved with a way forward.

Background

The 3 year action plan adopted by the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee identified $75,000 each financial year for forward designs and project development. This project is put forward for consideration for project development. Details of the proposal are attached (D21/413205), the Objectives, Scope and Success Criteria are extracted as follows:

Objectives

To determine the feasibility of a smart poles project in the Nowra CBD

The objective of the smart poles project in general, is to help activate the CBD. The changing colour lights and speakers could be used during events to help set a festive atmosphere and to inform people that an event is on.

Scope

Investigate and report on the feasibility of:

1. Retrofitting the existing poles in junction street with:

o Under awning LED lights with colour change and pattern capabilities

o Speakers

o Improved Street Lighting

2. Council providing free wi-fi in the CBD area.

3. Rolling out the improvements in stages

This project does not include detail design and will only be high level concept.

Success Criteria

Upon the completion of the feasibility stage of the project, the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee will have the required information to determine if further investment in developing this project is warranted.

Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee – Wednesday 06 October 2021

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CBD21.38 Project Proposal – Investigation & Design - Pedestrian Crossing - Junction Street Nowra

HPERM Ref: D21/413228

Department: Technical Services

Approver: Paul Keech, Director - City Services

Attachments: 1. Project Proposal - Investigation & Design - Pedestrian Crossing - Junction Street - Nowra ⇩

Reason for Report

To allow the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee to consider endorsing and funding the Investigation and Design of a Pedestrian (Zebra) Crossing in Junction Street, Nowra

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee

1. Endorse and fund, from the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee Budget, the Project Proposal for the Investigation & Design for a Pedestrian Crossing in Junction Street, Nowra as detailed in D21/413222 with the following scope:

Scope

Preparation of:

1. Detailed design of a pedestrian (zebra) crossing at the existing crossing point at Morisons Arcade

2. Preparation of a cost estimate for the works

2. Allocate $5,000 from the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee Budget to deliver the project scope.

Options

1. Adopt as recommended

Implications: The project can commence

2. The committee could choose not to fund the project.

Implications: The project will not proceed at this stage and will be considered on merit with all other projects across the Shoalhaven for funding in Council’s future financial years Delivery Plan and Operational Plans.

A resolution for this option would be (in part)

1. Does not choose to fund the Project Proposal for the Investigation & Design for a Pedestrian Crossing in Junction Street, Nowra as detailed in D21/413222.

Note: if the Committee adopted option two, this suggested resolution would be improved with a way forward

Background

The 3 year action plan adopted by the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee identified $75,000 each financial year for forward designs and project development. This project is put forward for consideration for design. Details of the proposal are attached (D21/413222), the Objectives, Scope and Success Criteria are extracted as follows:

Objectives

To investigate the warrants, design and estimate the cost to construct a marked pedestrian crossing in Junction Street, Nowra (At the location of the existing crossing on Morison’s Arcade)

The objective of the pedestrian crossing is to provide easier navigation to pedestrians in the CBD by providing them with a right of way crossing.

Scope

To design a pedestrian crossing near Morisons Arcade.

The design of the line marking and signage is only a minor design. However, marked pedestrian crossings are required to meet a certain level of illumination so a lighting design will be required.

Success Criteria

Upon the completion of the design, the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee will have the required information to determine if further investment in constructing this project is warranted.

Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee – Wednesday 06 October 2021

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CBD21.39 Project Proposal - Traffic Master Plan - North St Nowra

HPERM Ref: D21/413241

Department: Technical Services

Approver: Paul Keech, Director - City Services

Attachments: 1. Project Proposal - North St Master Plan ⇩

Reason for Report

To allow the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee to consider endorsing and funding a Traffic Masterplan for North Street, Nowra.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee

1. Endorse and fund, from the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee Budget the Project Proposal for a Traffic Masterplan for North Street, Nowra as detailed in D21/413239 with the following scope:

Scope

Preparation of:

1. Concept designs for intersection upgrades along North Street for prioritisation an grant funding applications

2. Preparation of concept-level cost estimates for the upgrades

2. Allocate $60,000 from the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee Budget to deliver the project scope.

Options

1. Adopt as recommended

Implications: The project can commence

2. The committee could choose not to fund the project.

A resolution for this option would be

1. Does not choose to fund the Project Proposal for a Traffic Masterplan for North Street, Nowra as detailed in D21/413239.

Note: if the Committee adopted option two, this suggested resolution would be improved with a way forward.

Background

The 3-year action plan adopted by the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee identified $75,000 each financial year for forward designs and project development. This project is put forward for consideration for project development. Details of the proposal are attached (D21/413239), the Objectives, Scope and Success Criteria are extracted as follows:

Objectives

To develop a master plan for the future development of North Street, Nowra. North St is increasing in utilisation with many of the intersections nearing capacity. With many intersections needing upgrades, a master plan including concepts and costings would allow for a planned prioritised implementation of the upgrades. Having a masterplan with concept designs and costings would also assist in applying for any grants that may become available in the future.

Scope

Review the existing data, consult with stakeholders, identify projects and for the identified projects provide:

· Concept designs

· Costing to complete detail design

· Concept construction costings

Success Criteria

Upon the completion of the masterplan, the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee will have the required information to determine if further investment in developing any of these projects is warranted and be able to prioritise projects.

Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee – Wednesday 06 October 2021

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CBD21.40 Discussion - Alcohol Prohibited Areas - Collection of Supporting Information

HPERM Ref: D21/413181

Department: Technical Services

Approver: Paul Keech, Director - City Services

Attachments: 1. Support of Alcohol-Free Zone ⇩

Reason for Report

To inform the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee of the next steps required in requesting the existing alcohol consumption restrictions in the Nowra CBD to be expanded.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That The Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee members (owners and retailers):

1. Distribute and seek response from their networks by way of the attached Support Alcohol Free Zone questionnaire (D21/413187)

a. Examples of the area being compromised by alcohol consumption will help support any future application. For example

i. Malicious damage to property

ii. Littering

iii. Anti-social behaviour

iv. Other crimes

2. Collate the responses and send to the Manager Design Services prior to the next CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee on the 1/12/2021

Options

1. As Recommended

Implications: The process for the expansion of alcohol consumption restrictions application will continue.

2. The Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee could choose not to collect the supporting information

Implications: The process for expansion of alcohol consumption restrictions could not proceed at this time.

Background

The following was resolved at the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee held on the 09/06/2021

That as a local community group, the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee forms a working group to progress an application, formally requesting Council to create an Alcohol Prohibited Area on land in the Egans Lane and Stewart Place Car Park precinct to supplement the existing Alcohol Free Zones, with the key tasks being:

a. Create a plan to be submitted with the formal application showing the locations requested to be made Alcohol Prohibited Area and/or Alcohol Free Zone.

b. Collect any evidence that the public use of these roads, footpaths or public parks has been compromised by consumption of alcohol in the immediate area, for example, there could be instances of malicious damage to property, littering, anti-social behaviour, or other crimes, and document this evidence accordingly.

This report provides the direction and tools to complete item b above. The Manager Design Services will provide a verbal update during the meeting.