Press Release: 5/4/2022
DEVELOPER THTREATENS TO HALT $100 MILLION PROJECT AS A RESULT OF COUNCIL DELAYS
Core Asset Development Pty Ltd (CAD), the developer of the $100 million “The Sapphire of Eden” and the re-furbishment of the Australasia Hotel, has threatened to stop work on both projects as a result of Bega Valley Council officer’s bungling of the various consents allowing the projects to proceed further.
The construction of both projects is expected to generate local 1,043 jobs and 80 ongoing jobs, yet the council bureaucrats have again slowed them down through continued delays in providing the required consents.
Mark Toma, managing director of CAD said “Slow and poor handling of the various consents on both projects could soon mean we will be forced to halt the works on both projects, denying work for the local people and holding back the region’s economic recovery.
“Construction commenced last month on the site of the former Eden Fishermen’s Reaction Club and the renovation of the Australasia Hotel is in its final stages, but neither project looks like they will be proceeding as a result of the vindictive and poor behaviour of Bega Council’s planning officers.
“Previously agreed commitments have been thrown out by council officers and new demands made on us, while the whole process has been bogged down under the pretext of under-staffing at the council”, he added.
Special adviser to CAD, Mr John Palasty said the councillors, who had been helpful and supportive of both projects, should step in to get both projects back on track after the bungling of the staff members.
“CAD is proud to be leading the charge in the revitalization of Eden’s city centre but we can not keep investing millions of dollars in both projects if we are going to be faced with continuing obstacles erected by incompetent council staff”, he added.
The Australasia Hotel was expected to be re-opened in mid-2022 with restaurants, outdoor eateries and a heritage bar called” Rankins Bar”, two vodka and gin distilleries and outdoor theatre.
