Harbord Beach Hotel in Freshwater is pushing for a change to local planning regulations to facilitate the creation of a three-storey, 37-room hotel wing. This move has sparked widespread community concern.
The hotel’s owners are now seeking a review from the NSW Planning Department after the Northern Beaches Council declined to support the rezoning proposal.
Community Concerns and Council Decision
The proposal to amend the Warringah Local Environmental Plan to allow hotel accommodation as an “additional permitted use” drew substantial opposition during its public exhibition. Approximately 110 submissions were lodged with the council, expressing worries that the proposed structure would negatively impact the character of the historic art deco pub, which opened in 1928.
Residents also raised concerns about the suitability of a large hotel in a primarily residential neighbourhood. In November, the Northern Beaches Council responded to these concerns by voting against the rezoning, forwarding the matter to the state government’s Planning Department for further review.
Hotel Owner Pursues State Government Review
Glenn Piper, who acquired the Harbord Beach Hotel in 2019, requested that the Planning Department examine the rezoning application. The department has responded by requiring an independent assessment by the Sydney North Planning Panel.
This panel will determine if the proposal warrants further consideration. If the panel’s assessment is favourable, the Planning Department will issue a Gateway Determination, establishing a separate panel to recommend to the Planning Minister whether the rezoning should be approved.
Hotel’s Proposed Development Details
Mr Piper plans to construct the hotel accommodation adjacent to the existing pub and bottle shop, encompassing 37 rooms, a swimming pool, and a gymnasium. The development also includes a basement carpark with 72 spaces. The hotel’s owner has emphasised that the venue has a history of providing accommodation and consistently receives inquiries for hotel rooms.
Hotel’s Stance and Community Engagement
In a statement, the hotel asserted that they aim to maintain the Harbord Hotel as a central gathering place for locals and visitors. They maintain that the accommodation proposal addresses a need for visitor lodging in Freshwater, allowing people to visit family, enjoy the coastline, and experience the local culture. The hotel stated that they consulted with council staff before lodging the development application and are committed to considering the community’s perspective.
Furthermore, they assert that the project will increase parking availability for the Freshwater Basin and demonstrate respect for the area’s heritage and design. The hotel stated its commitment to the area and its residents and said it would continue to shape the area’s future.
Published Date 28-Feb-2025
