Batemans Bay is one of the fastest growing areas on the NSW South Coast, and due to its proximity to Sydney and Canberra it is a popular coastal retirement and tourist area. The growing popularity of recreational boating has placed pressure on the existing marina, which was built more than 25 years ago, has a limited capacity and is operating beyond its designed service life. There is high demand for marina facilities and 100 names are currently on the marina waiting list.
In response to pressure from the community, the NSW Department of Lands met with government agencies in late 2003 to identify the issues associated with redeveloping the marina. The Department then undertook studies to determine the future demand for marina facilities and explore the option of redeveloping the marina. In 2006 the Department consulted with key stakeholders and the local community to refine a concept plan to redevelop the marina and undertook preliminary environmental assessment. Approximately 180 letters were sent to neighbouring landowners and boat owners inviting feedback on the concept plan. Two stakeholder workshops and a public meeting were held by the Department during the concept development process.
In mid 2006 the Department called for expressions of interest from interested developers to manage the detailed design process and to construct and operate the marina redevelopment. In February 2007, Ariadne was successfully selected as the preferred proponent.
Ariadne is currently undertaking detailed environmental assessment studies and consulting with the community to finalise the detailed design. Planning approval will be sought from the NSW Minister for Planning under Part 3A of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.