Agenda of Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee

Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee – Tuesday 14 December 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
Gordon Clark			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, 6 October 2021

Location: Teams

Time: 4.10pm

The following members were present (remotely):

Mr James Caldwell - Chairperson

Clr Patricia White

Clr John Wells

Mr Scott Baxter – joined 4.10pm

Mr Brendan Goddard – left 5.38pm

Mr Wesley Hindmarch

Ms Catherine Shields – joined at 4.11pm

Mr Paul Keech - Director City Services

Mr Gordon Clark - Director - City Futures

Others present (Remotely):

Clr Nina Digiglio

Ms Sara McMahon – Manager – Business Assurance & Risk

Mr Craig Exton – Manager – Technical Services

Mr Micaiah Tipton – Manager – Design Services

Ms Melissa Dunn – Unit Manager – District Engineer – Central

· Apologies / Leave of Absence

Apologies have been received from Clr Gash.

· Confirmation of the Minutes

RESOLVED (Clr White / James Caldwell)

That the Minutes of the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee held on Wednesday 4 August 2021 be confirmed.

CARRIED

· Declarations of Interest

Nil

Presentations

CBD21.32 DPOP Projects of Interest

HPERM Ref: D21/421639

Catherine Shields joined at 4.11pm.

Note: Micaiah Tipton provided a presentation in relation to the DPOP Projects of interest.

The following projects have been identified for high level reporting at each meeting and will be presented and updated each meeting:

· Nowra Arts Centre – Roof renewal

· Nowra CBD – All Day Car Parking

· Nowra – O’Keefe Avenue

· Nowra – Berry/Worrigee Street – Multistorey Car Park – Investigate and Design

· Nowra – Bridge Rd/Hyam St Intersection – Safer Roads Project

· Nowra – Berry St/Worrigee St Intersection – Upgrade Traffic Lights (Design)

· Council Admin Building Works

Reports

CBD21.33 Committee Actions Report for Ongoing/Completed Items

HPERM Ref: D21/406263

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. CBD21.22 - Presentation - Capital Works Program - Distribute to Members - Presentation – DPOP

b. CBD21.25 - Report Back - Current Rates Paid - Stockland and Nowra CBD Generally - next vacancy - Guidelines - Get Involved – deputations

c. CBD21.30 - Additional Item - Working Group Discussion - Wider Diversity - discussion next meeting

RESOLVED (Clr White / Clr Wells)

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. CBD21.22 - Presentation - Capital Works Program - Distribute to Members - Presentation – DPOP

b. CBD21.23 - Presentation - Update on Budget and Proposed Expenditure - Invite Kevin Voegt - confirmation of allocation

c. CBD21.25 - Report Back - Current Rates Paid - Stockland and Nowra CBD Generally - next vacancy - Guidelines - Get Involved – deputations

d. CBD21.30 - Additional Item - Working Group Discussion - Wider Diversity - discussion next meeting.

CARRIED

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

HPERM Ref: D21/407658

The Committee discussed the current Terms of Reference (TOR) and the proposed changes:

· The Chairperson, Clr White and Paul Keech to meet offline to discuss making changes to the TOR and bring a report back to the Committee for further discussion.

· Changes to Councillors’ membership is suggested and their involvement with working groups. Consider a high profile member of the community to be involved in the working groups.

· Reduction of the quorum and co-opt members of the community on the Working groups as needed

· Community member position was originally created as users on the CBD and for increasing retailers

· Add more retailers and business users

· Reconsider membership of staff

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 – James Caldwell

Committee Member – Cr Patricia White

Committee Member – Director City Services

RESOLVED (Paul Keech / Brendan Goddard)

The Current Committee Chair – James Caldwell

Committee Member – Cr Patricia White

Committee Member – Director City Services

CARRIED

CBD21.35 Update - Nowra CBD Planning Controls Review

HPERM Ref: D21/411841

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.

RESOLVED (Clr Wells / Scott Baxter)

That the Committee:

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

CARRIED

CBD21.36 Budget Update October 2021

HPERM Ref: D21/410581

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 CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee projects and initiatives.

RESOLVED (Clr White / Brendan Goddard)

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

CARRIED

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

HPERM Ref: D21/413208

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.

RESOLVED (Paul Keech / Clr White)

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.

CARRIED

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

HPERM Ref: D21/413228

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.

RESOLVED (Clr White / Wesley Hindmarch)

That the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee:

Scope

Preparation of:

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

ii. Preparation of a cost estimate for the works

iii. Investigate the speed environment of Junction Street for a potential speed limit reduction

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

3. CARRIED

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

HPERM Ref: D21/413241

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 and 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.

RESOLVED (Clr White / Brendan Goddard)

That the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee

Scope

Preparation of:

1. Concept designs for intersection upgrades along North Street for prioritisation and 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.

CARRIED

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

HPERM Ref: D21/413181

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

RESOLVED (Clr White / Catherine Shields)

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 1 December 2021

CARRIED

Introduction of Items as Matters of Urgency

RESOLVED (James Caldwell / Clr White)

That the following addendum report be introduced as a matter of urgency:

1. CBD21.42 Annual Financial Statement - Nowra CBD Promotions Budget - 2020-2021

CARRIED

The Chairperson ruled the matters as one of urgency as it relates to urgent business of Council and allowed its introduction.

Addendum Reports

CBD21.42 Annual Financial Statement - Nowra CBD Promotions Budget - 2020-2021

HPERM Ref: D21/419459

Recommendation

That the Annual Financial Statements for the 2019-2020 Financial Year (Attached) provided by the Nowra CBD Business Chamber be received for information.

RESOLVED (Clr Wells / Clr White)

That the Annual Financial Statements for the 2019-2020 Financial Year (Attached) provided by the Nowra CBD Business Chamber be received for information.

CARRIED

General Business

CBD21.41 Action Plan - Verbal Update

HPERM Ref: D21/410926

Gordon Clark – Director City Futures addressed the meeting and advised that Council resolved the following on 27 July 2021.

It was noted that the budget is in addition to the increased rate peg amount. An Email-Meeting will be scheduled if needed.

Council resolved as follows on 27 July 2021 (MIN21.543):

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.

RESOLVED (Gordon Clark / Wesley Hindmarch)

That the Action Plan – Verbal Update be received for information, noting the allocation is $500,000 plus the increased rate peg amount.

CARRIED

CBD21.43 Additional item - Christmas Update

Clr White provided an update on the CBD Christmas and advised that they are purchasing new Christmas decorations and the CBD Christmas will launch on 16 December 2021.

The assistance of the Committee members is needed to help set up etc. A sound system will be purchased to play carols and the entertainment can utilise it as well. The whole of Junction court will be used. The budget for this year will likely increase to approximately $72,000.

Other matters:

Gordon Clark advised that a mural opportunity may be arising prior to the next meeting, therefore an email meeting may be required.

Note: Brendan Goddard left at 5.38pm

James Caldwell asked that when members receive emails requesting responses, they please respond in a timely manner.

There being no further business, the meeting concluded, the time being 5.41pm.

Mr James Caldwell

CHAIRPERSON

Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee – Tuesday 14 December 2021

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CBD21.44 New Mural Opportunity - Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Public Art - 11 Haigh Ave, NOWRA

HPERM Ref: D21/490498

Department: Strategic Planning

Approver: Coralie Bell, Section Manager - Tourism

Attachments: 1. Possible wall locations - new mural opportunity ⇩

2. Quote - Verb Syndicate ⇩

Reason for Report

Consider an opportunity to engage accomplished Australian muralists for a new mural project in the Nowra CBD and decide on in-principle and budget support to engage the artists.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the Committee:

1. Supports the commissioning of muralists Krimsone and Scott Nagy for a Nowra CBD Mural project in February/March 2022.

2. Supports the subject of the mural proposal being open to creative freedom/expression of the artists with the following broad scope:

a. The artist to possibly incorporate local landscape/landmarks, flora/fauna and/or a prominent local identity.

b. First preference for the mural location is the northern brick wall of the former Care South building at 11 Haigh Avenue, Nowra.

c. Second preference for the mural location is the southern brick wall of the former Spotlight building at 26 Berry Street, Nowra (western side of Stewart Place car park).

3. Request council staff negotiate with landowners of preferred walls listed above, or other buildings if unavailable, to enable the mural to be painted.

4. Allocate a budget of $55,000 (maximum) to cover the commissioning of the artists and associated costs for the mural project.

Options

1. Support the recommendation.

Implications: This will enable the artists, Krimsone and Scott Nagy, to be commissioned to undertake a large mural (e.g., 100% of the former Care South building wall). The CBD will benefit from a significant new mural (the first since early 2019) from accomplished Australian muralists and it will achieve an ongoing action in the Nowra CBD Masterplan and Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy. It will also continue to build the CBD’s portfolio of significant murals that are becoming a feature and attractor in their own right.

2. As recommended, but with a lesser budget commensurate with a smaller size mural.

Implications: This will enable the artists, Krimsone and Scott Nagy, to be commissioned to undertake a smaller size mural (e.g., 50% of the Care South wall). It may not achieve the full impact of a larger mural, but the CBD will still benefit from an additional mural from accomplished Australian muralists, and it will continue to build the CBD’s portfolio of significant murals that are becoming a feature and attractor in their own right.

3. Not support the recommendation.

Implications: The artists will not be commissioned and the opportunity to engage accomplished Australian muralists will be missed. The two walls that are currently available are considered to be good candidates for a new mural in the CBD. The landowners may or may not make them available in the future.

Background

Consistent with the adopted Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy outcome to provide ‘Public Art in the CBD’ and the Committee’s previous support and commitment to the Nowra CBD murals, an opportunity to add a new mural to the Nowra CBD Murals Trail has been identified. It is understood that there is general support from the Committee to continue the mural trail and consider funding new opportunities as they arise.

Accomplished street muralists Krimsone and Scott Nagy, from the Blue Mountains, have expressed an interest in completing a new mural project in the Nowra CBD. The artists are renowned for their vibrant style which resonates around environmental themes, flora and fauna and surreal perspectives. They have completed a range of mural commissions for other Councils across NSW and Australia, both individually and in partnership.

A portfolio of the artist’s work can be accessed via the links below. It includes recent mural projects for Shellharbour City Council and for the Wonderwalls Festival in Wollongong and Port Kembla.

· Krimsone

· Scott Nagy

A picture containing text, colorful

Description automatically generated

Figure 1: Day dreamer, corner of Tongarra Road and Halket Lane, Albion Park (Krimsone & Scott Nagy, 2021)

Potential location for mural project

Should the Committee support taking up this opportunity, there are several potential walls that may be available however two possible walls (see Attachment 1) stand out as being good candidates for their location and the artist’s style of artwork:

1. Former Care South building, 11 Haigh Ave – North facing wall approximately 40m (L) x 8m (H). Highly visible from Haigh Avenue and across the public car park from Officeworks. Raw brick surface.

2. Former Spotlight building, Berry St – South facing wall approximately 30m (L) x 8m (H). Highly visible from the Stewart Place car park and bus interchange. Recently repainted. Subject to a heritage listing.

The respective landowners both approached Council with an interest in adding a mural to their wall. Both walls are well located in relation to other existing murals and would be a logical extension of the mural trail.

Considering previous murals completed by Krimsone and Scott Nagy, both walls fit the size/scale that the artists would be looking for. Depending on the artist’s ultimate vision, it may be appropriate to have an artwork that incorporates local landscapes/landmarks, flora/fauna and/or a prominent local identity.

The preferred wall, at this stage, is the former Care South building. It has frontage to a Council owned car park which provides a level of control over the access arrangements. It is of ideal size/dimensions and possibly more visible given its location across from a high-traffic premises (Officeworks). The new owners wish to repaint the wall sooner rather than later. If the Committee decides not to take up the mural opportunity at this time, they may proceed with a standard repainting of the wall.

The former Spotlight building wall is also a good candidate but would potentially require some extra steps to be worked through. The wall is not accessible from public land so there may be a need to negotiate an agreement with the landowner to facilitate access, insurances etc. The property is also subject to a heritage listing in Shoalhaven LEP 2014 for “The Peoples Emporium” two storey Victorian building fronting Berry St. This is not expected to be an impediment but would require a “Heritage – Minor Works & Maintenance” permit before a mural could proceed on the wall of the more recent additions.

Costs

For previous mural projects Council has worked with Verb Syndicate to engage artists that are already commissioned for other projects (e.g., the Wonderwalls Festival). This has enabled cost savings as the artists can absorb some of the costs into their other commissions. This year however, Verb Syndicate have advised that Wonderwalls is on hold and is not likely to be held again until November 2022, at the earliest.

Given the uncertainty around Wonderwalls, a quote was obtained from Verb Syndicate for artists Krimsone and Scott Nagy to undertake a mural (see Attachment 2). Based on a mural covering 100% of the Care South wall, the costs would be in the vicinity of $49,475 - $54,175 (Inc. GST), generally made up of the following:

- Artist fees and accommodation: $30,525

- Materials, design & equipment: $9,130

- Scissor lift: $4,950

- Project management: $4,400

- Photography and video (optional): $5,170

The quote is likely to be higher relative to previous mural projects where savings were made by engaging the artists in association with Wonderwalls. Notwithstanding, this engagement would deliver a significant new mural to the Nowra CBD (the first since early 2019), with the potential to generate enhanced interest and awareness in the mural trail.

Verb Syndicate have also advised that the cost of a base coat (~$9000 for the Care South wall) has not been quoted and would be absorbed by the artists should the Committee decide to proceed with the mural project.

Alternatively, the Committee could approve a lesser budget, commensurate with a smaller size mural (for example, 50% of the Care South wall). Verb Syndicate have advised that the artists can adapt a mural design to fit within the budget parameters set by the Committee.

The owner of the former Care South building is willing to consider a financial contribution to any mural, subject to seeing the details. Council would have further discussions in this regard with the relevant landowners if the Committee decided to take up the opportunity.

Community Engagement

Community engagement regarding this particular commission is anticipated to be minimal, given the short timeframe. An event will potentially be created around the actual painting of the wall, giving the community an opportunity to interact with the artist during the creative process and promoting the role of the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Committee in bringing the artists to town.

Policy Implications

The recommended commission is in line with the adopted Nowra CBD Masterplan and Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy. The adopted Revitalising Nowra Action Plan 2021-2023 also notes the CBD Murals Trail as an initiative that has been well received.

Financial Implications

There is no current budget allocation for the Nowra CBD Murals Trail, however, it is understood that there is general support from the Committee to consider funding new mural opportunities as and when they arise.

The Committee has a forecast budget surplus for 2021/22 of approximately $814,000 from which funds could be allocated if the Committee decided to proceed with the mural project.

Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee – Tuesday 14 December 2021

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CBD21.46 Event Proposal - Monthly Food Market

HPERM Ref: D21/495232

Department: Tourism

Approver: Coralie Bell, Section Manager - Tourism

Attachments: 1. Night Market Proposal - Wes Murphy - Shoalhaven Food Network ⇩

Reason for Report

To provide information on a potential partnership opportunity between the Nowra CBD Committee and the Shoalhaven Food Network to deliver a monthly food market in the Nowra CBD.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the Nowra CBD Committee:

1. Formally partner with the Shoalhaven Food Network to deliver a monthly food event in Jellybean Park and Egans Lane for 6-12 months, in line with Action A13 and A14 in the Revitalisation Strategy. Noting there are some changes from Action A13 Monthly Fresh Food Market, including the proposed day and nature of food market.

2. Create a working group of the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Committee to work with the Shoalhaven Food Network and act as a liaison until the Placemaker is appointed to take over the role.

a. Allocate the following two members to the working group:

i. James Caldwell

ii. Brendan Goddard

3. Request that the working group negotiate a funding agreement in line with the adopted budget to support event delivery and report back recommendations to the next meeting.

Options

1. As above, agree that the event proposal aligns with the objectives of the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy, and the working group commence discussions with the Shoalhaven Food Network to negotiate an event funding agreement.

Implications:

a. A monthly event is held at Jellybean Park for the next 6-12 months

b. Actions 13 and 14 in the Place Strategy will begin to be implemented

c. Nowra CBD businesses benefit from the monthly activation of Jellybean Park and Egans Lane

2. Thank the Shoalhaven Food Network for their proposal and decline the invitation to partner at this time.

Implications:

a. Shoalhaven Food Network may decide to relocate the event to a venue outside of the CBD to reduce costs

b. A scaled back version of the event may go ahead. This may not have the same impact or create the same atmosphere

c. Risk that the organisers may postpone or cancel the event altogether

Event Name: Shoalhaven Street Eats and Beats

Event Background

A monthly afternoon/evening street food and music event in the Nowra CBD that unites community and showcases local Shoalhaven producers, chefs and musicians. The vision is for it to be like Eat Street Markets in Wollongong or The Rocks Markets in Sydney. Via engaging local musicians and investing in decorations (lighting, tables and chairs), the event will create a good atmosphere and vibe in the Nowra CBD.

The intention of Shoalhaven Food Network is to engage local producers and chefs, and to collaborate with CBD Businesses as part of this process. The Network has identified Wednesday as the best evening for the market. Their rationale is that food trucks and other food vendors are often booked from Thursday through to Sunday and in need of work on a Wednesday. Similar mid-week markets, including Kiama and Berry Markets, have been successful in attracting the local community during the week. Further to this, from 2pm during the week the CBD tends to be quiet, thus a Wednesday market provides incentive for businesses to extend their hours and increase trade during the week.

Location

Jellybean Park, with expansion into Egans Lane as the Market grows.

Size

Start with 10-15 stalls, the intention is this will expand into the future.

Time/Date

One Wednesday a month from 3pm - 7.30pm, with bump in from 2pm. First market to be held late December or January.

Marketing

Promotion through the Shoalhaven Food Network website, local media, flyers throughout the CBD, social channels of stallholders and listed on the Shoalhaven Tourism Event Calendar.

Strategic Alignment to Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy

The proposal aligns with the essence of the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy which talks broadly about increased dwell times, celebrating and activating the CBD, attracting more customers and supporting business sustainability and growth. This proposal presents a good opportunity to begin implementing Action 13 and 14 ahead of the appointment of a Placemaker.

Action 13 Monthly Fresh Food Market - Under this action $50,000 has being allocated in 2022/23 and $20,000 in 2023/24 for a weekend Fresh Food Market. While this proposal is for a Wednesday evening and not specifically around a fresh food market – it will achieve a similar objective in that it will activate Jellybean Park at a time that is generally quieter in the CBD, encourage businesses to participate in the event and to extend trading hours when the event is on. Investment in this event does not mean a weekend fresh food market cannot occur, it is possible that the budget allocation under this action could cover both.

Action 14 Major Activation Feasibility Study - Under this action a “Summer Festival Hub” in Egans Lane and Jellybean Park has been put forward as one of many ways to activate the CBD and enhance its night-time offering. Alongside this action, $240,000 has been allocated for 2022/23 and 2023/24.

Partnership Proposal

The Shoalhaven Food Network are requesting the following support from the CBD Committee:

· Assistance securing, and funding, live music to feature each month

· Assistance funding event decorations such as festoon lighting, tables, and chairs

· Financial assistance with venue hire

· Financial assistance with Traffic Management Plan required to close of Egans Lane

· Engagement with local CBD restaurants and cafes

· General event promotion and business notification

The event organisers are open to collaborating and the items listed above are part of an initial proposal which they are happy to discuss further.

Working Group

Until a placemaker has been hired, it is proposed a working group be established with the intent to manage the relationship between the CBD Committee and the Shoalhaven Food Network. Council Staff will be involved in the event approval process and are happy to provide input through the working group if requested by the committee, Shoalhaven Council staff will not be responsible for event delivery.

Draft Budget

Below is a draft budget which outlines the approximate costs per event, noting that there are ways to reduce these costs, such as an upfront investment in event decorations and a PA system. The marketing costs will also reduce over time.

Item	Cost
Event Decorations – tables, chairs, bunting, lighting (Cost reflected is for rental. This could be reduced overtime if purchased and reused).	$1,500
Live Music (cost dependent on bands, could be reduced)	$1,500
Additional generators for food trucks	$660
Additional Bins	$330
Marketing (likely to be an initial cost for flyers, ads etc. cost will reduce overtime)	$1,500
PA System	$600
Venue Hire	$300
Traffic Control Plan (estimate, each TMP is different)	$1,300
Vendor fee (based on 10 vendors at $100 per vendor – fee may increase over time)	-$1,000
TOTAL	$6,690

Policy Implications

Currently there are specific guidelines that dictate the booking requirements for Jellybean Park. These are named; Guidelines to Booking JELLY BEAN PARK OPEN SPACE.

Under these guidelines there are restrictions around the sale of food in Jellybean Park. Therefore, amendments to these guidelines would be required to ensure the ongoing activation of this space into the future.

Guidelines state the following:

Food Stalls

The sale of food and cooking on site in Jellybean Park is generally prohibited. This is because of the proximity of a number of retail food outlets. The sale of food will require permission from the Economic Development Office and will most likely be denied. In addition, under the provisions of the NSW Food Act 2003, all food stall operators are required to sell safe and suitable food and are required to adhere to Shoalhaven City Council’s Local Approvals Policy for Mobile Food Stalls/Vehicles and Temporary Food Premises. Please note that food stalls are limited to selling wrapped and labelled baked goods i.e. cakes, biscuits; labelled jams, preserves and bottled products. Cooking on site is generally prohibited. For more information contact the Economic Development Office of Shoalhaven City Council on 4429 3388. All food stalls must have a Temporary Food Permit to sell food.

Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee – Tuesday 14 December 2021

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CBD21.49 Project Update - December 2021

HPERM Ref: D21/488017

Department: Technical Services

Approver: Paul Keech, Director - City Services

Reason for Report

To provide the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee with an update on nominated projects within Nowra CBD.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee note the update provided on the nominated projects within the Nowra CBD.

Background

The following projects are funded by the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee. Updates on each of the below projects will be provided at meetings of the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee:

· Feasibility Investigation - Use of Smart Poles in the Nowra CBD

· Investigation & Design - Pedestrian Crossing - Junction Street Nowra

· Traffic Masterplan for North Street, Nowra

The following projects are funded by Council. The Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee has requested a short update on the below projects at meetings of the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee:

· Nowra Arts Centre - Roof renewal works

· Nowra CBD - All Day Car Parking

· Nowra - O'Keeffe Avenue

· Nowra - Berry / Worrigee Street - Multistorey Car Park - Investigate and Design

· Nowra - Bridge Rd / Hyam St Int - Safer Roads Project

· Nowra - Berry St / Worrigee St - Int upgrade Traffic Lights (Design)

· Council Admin Building Works

Project Updates

1. Feasibility Investigation - Use of Smart Poles in the Nowra CBD

Budget - $12,000.

Expected Delivery Date – May 2022.

Complete Urban has been engaged to undertake the feasibility investigation for $10,190 excl GST.

2. Investigation & Design – Pedestrian Crossing – Junction Street, Nowra

Budget - $5,000.

Expected Delivery Date – April 2022

No Progress to date. A likely requirement before installing a crossing would be improving the lighting. It is planned that during December a quote for an assessment and lighting design will be sourced. The quote will then be forwarded to the Committee Chair for approval.

3. Traffic Masterplan for North St, Nowra

Historical reports and studies have been reviewed. The consultants that have completed previous traffic modelling in the area have been approached to ascertain the suitability of the data in the historic models for use in this exercise, however due to the age of the previous studies the data is no longer available or relevant. The project is currently being scoped for a consultant to prepare concept designs for possible intersection improvements.

4. Nowra Arts Centre - Roof renewal works

On hold pending budget confirmation.

5. Nowra CBD - All Day Car Parking

A report recommending a preferred location for this project will go to the Strategy and Assets Committee meeting of Council in February 2022.

6. Nowra - O'Keeffe Avenue

This project is to provide a signalized pedestrian crossing at the existing pedestrian crossing between Coles and the Ex Servos. The Project has a budget of $289,000 and is expected to start and finish construction in May 2022.

7. Nowra - Berry/Worrigee Street - Multistorey Car Park - Investigate and Design

This Project is to design a multistorey Carpark at the corner of Berry St and Worrigee St. The Civil and Structural Design has been completed. Facade and electrical design are ongoing and expected to be complete by the end of the 21/22 financial year. A Grant Application to partially fund the construction of this project from the Building Better Regions Fund was submitted but was unsuccessful. Other opportunities for grant funding will be explored.

8. Nowra - Bridge Rd / Hyam St Int - safer roads project

This Project is for the design of Traffic Lights at the Intersection of Bridge Rd and Hyam St, Nowra. This project is reliant on grant funding. To date Council has been unsuccessful in obtaining grant funding and the project is on hold.

9. Design of Traffic Lights at the Intersection of Worrigee St and Berry St, Nowra.

This project is reliant on grant funding. To date Council has been unsuccessful in obtaining grant funding and the project is on hold.

10. Council Admin Building Works

Nowra Admin Safety Works – To improve safety measures in the northern carpark – Budget $50,000 – Complete.

Basement Entry Improvements – To improve the entrance to the basement carpark – Budget $40,000 – Existing door refurbished and road pavement renewal - Complete.

Digital Signage upgrade in public areas & council offices – To improve digital signage and screens within both Public and Staff areas of the Administration Building – Budget $60,000 – Project currently being scoped.

Upgrade to Accessible Amenities – Provide additional accessible amenities – Budget - $150,000 – Project currently being planned and designed.

Fire Mitigation Upgrade – To improve the administration buildings fire safety measures– Budget $1,010,000 – Project currently being scoped.

Reception Service Counter Renewal - To upgrade the front counter area of the Administration Building – Budget $150,000 – This project was identified when the new customer experience was being formed. This project is currently on hold pending a review of priorities within the Customer Experience Department.

Year	2021-2022	2022-2023	2023-2024
Proposed Budget	$549,748	$560,743	$571,958

Year	2021-2022	2022-2023	2023-2024
Proposed Budget	$549,748	$550,000	$550,000