Proposals to further a Heritage Conservation Area (HCA) in Eden will be put on hold to await feedback from community consultation following a recent council meeting.
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The area covered by the proposal is the southern-most portion of Imlay Street and the aim is to help maintain the precinct's distinctive identity.
Council staff had recommended submitting the planning proposal and supporting information to the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment requesting a Gateway Determination under Section 3.34 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.
But Cr Robyn Bain was concerned that because the previous community consultation, carried out by the Eden Chamber of Commerce, had been in 2018, new owners in the area had not taken part.
"I have no problem with the intent of the heritage area but this consultation was taken some time ago," Cr Bain said.
Cr Kristy McBain who said it was incumbent on council to do its own consultation with the community.
In September 2018, the Eden Chamber of Commerce distributed letters to landowners to gauge support for a proposed HCA to protect the heritage character of the southern portion of Imlay Street.
Of the 18 landowners contacted by the chamber, 16 supported a proposed HCA, one was unsure and one was against. Council's heritage advisor has supported the implementation of an HCA.
The proposed HCA includes heritage listed properties the Eden Killer Whale Museum, former Eden Police Station, current Eden Police Station, Eden Courthouse, Half House, Crown and Anchor Inn and Warren's Cottage.
Inclusion of HCAs in Local Environment Plans (LEPs) not only acknowledges their importance, but also provides council with the opportunity to control future development in those precincts.
