Fencing at the back of the land opposite Woolworths in Main Street, Merimbula has signalled the start of development work.
The land which is used as a car park is privately owned by developer, Gerald Rawson who plans to build a new supermarket on the site. However the community will doubtless be relieved to hear that the area is not expected to be totally out of action as a car park during the holiday season.
The News Weekly has been told by Bega Valley Shire Council that DA matters are progressing on the site which is expected to look very different by this time next year.
A spokesman for council said that council has been advised early site works were taking place and should be finished around December 20.
“During this time there may be some reduction to parking whilst clearing and site services are completed. In speaking with those undertaking the works on behalf of the developer, council has been informed that fencing around the work can and will be relocated on an as needs basis in order to maximise available parking in the run up to Christmas,” the spokesman said.
“As you’d expect works on the site will slow if not stop between December 20 and January 8, during which time the number of car parking spaces will be about the same as that time last year.
“Between January 9 and 29 there will be a small reduction in the spaces on the western side next to Club Sapphire and the northern side as works progress along those boundaries.
“Through discussions with council, the developer and those in charge of the site are mindful of parking pressures during the busy holiday period between late December and January and seem to be doing their best to accommodate those needs,” the spokesman said.
“Council welcomes this private investment in the economy of the shire and show of support for Merimbula generally.”
Council has been at pains to remind people the Main Street work is a private development on private land.
“The site has a history of being used as an informal public car park but in now transitioning to being a private construction site,” the spokesman said.
Council reminded residents of the 70 untimed, car parking spaces on the old library site and next to Top Fun on Main Street which have recently been marked out for use.
