Gap Bluff gets new lease on life

2013 Questions and Answers for Expression of Interest Process

What kind of business opportunities is NPWS hoping to attract to the Gap Bluff Precinct?

Currently NPWS runs a number of businesses within the Gap Bluff Precinct including short stay accommodation, function and conference facilities. NPWS wishes to partner with businesses to continue and expand these opportunities.

All proposals will need to demonstrate compatibility with the significant conservation and community values of Sydney Harbour National Park, and capacity to comprehensively manage operational matters such as noise and traffic.

Are there any kinds of businesses or opportunities that will not be considered?

Fast food outlets, high rise buildings or apartments will not be permitted. Proposals will not be considered if they include inappropriate new buildings or advertising, significant environmental impact or are not sustainable.

Will buildings be demolished and new buildings constructed?

Sydney Harbour National Park Plan of Management and the environmental assessment process will guide any new development in the precinct. A Conservation Management Plan identifies where parts of existing buildings may be removed or new structures constructed.

Plans for the adaptive reuse of this site will also go through an extensive approval process including heritage, environmental and sustainability assessments.

What are the buildings currently used for?

The Gap Bluff Centre includes the Armoury and Officers Mess which currently operate as popular event, function and conference spaces.

Constables Cottage and Green Point Cottage are currently available for rent for short stay holiday accommodation.

Most of the other cottages are currently tenanted and the tenancies will eventually be terminated.

Why are new arrangements being considered for this site?

A number of Priority Projects were identified in the 2012 Sydney Harbour National Park Plan of Management. NPWS is progressing these projects. Project 11, - Gap Bluff Adaptive Reuse - aims to realise the potential adaptive reuse of the precinct and increase opportunities for visitor appreciation and access.

Find out more about the Sydney Harbour Plan of Management .

How will traffic, parking and noise impacts be managed?

Potential traffic and noise issues will be considered in detail during planning and development of the preferred project, following conclusion of the EOI stage. That will include any necessary environmental impact assessment process. Any approved project will be regulated through appropriate conditions and monitoring.

Will hours of operation be restricted?

The hours of operation will be determined during the detailed assessment phase for the preferred proposal. Depending on the nature and type of uses proposed, and potential impacts, restrictions may need to be considered. If determined to be necessary these would be applied through appropriate conditions and monitoring requirements.

What opportunities will the community have to comment on the proposal?

The community will be invited to an information evening at the beginning of the EOI process. This will be held at the Gap Bluff Centre Watsons Bay from 6pm on Thursday 17th October. RSVP Deborah.smith@environment.nsw.gov.au

There will also be an opportunity for the community to comment on proposals developed by the successful proponent, prior to any final decision to proceed.

Information will be posted on the Office of Environment web site throughout the process.

What is the role of the local council?

Woollahra Council is an important stakeholder in any future proposals for Sydney Harbour National Park. The National Parks and Wildlife Service regularly liaises with Council regarding a range of park management and surrounding land use issues. Woollahra Council will continue to have opportunities to provide input to the development of proposals for the site, and any issues for the local area.

Who will make the final decision on who is granted the leases for the site?

The Minister for the Environment will execute the lease after considering outcomes of the EOI process, assessment of environmental impacts, and consultation with the community and National Parks and Wildlife Advisory Council.