Agenda of Ordinary Meeting of Council - Tuesday, 17 March 2026

Ordinary Meeting of Council

TO BE HELD ON Tuesday, 17 March 2026 AT 7:00 PM

Level 3, Council Chamber

Agenda

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NOTE: For Full Details, See Council’s Website –

https://www.krg.nsw.gov.au under the link to business papers

The Livestream can be viewed here:

https://www.krg.nsw.gov.au/Council/Council-meetings/Council-meeting-live-stream

Disclaimer: All Ku-ring-gai Council Ordinary Meetings of Council are livestreamed for on-demand viewing on the KRG website. Although Council will do its best to ensure the public is excluded from the livestream, Council cannot guarantee a person’s image and/or voice won’t be broadcast. Accordingly, attendance at Council meetings is considered consent by a person for their image and/or voice to be webcast. Council accepts no liability for any damage that may result from defamatory comments made by persons attending meetings. As per clause 15.21 of Council’s Code of Meeting Practice, a person must not live stream or use an audio recorder, video camera, mobile phone or any other device to make a recording or photograph of the proceedings of a meeting of the council or a committee of the council without the prior authorisation of the council.

In accordance with clause 3.23 of the Model Code of Meeting Practice, Councillors are reminded of the oath or affirmation of office made under section 233A of the Act, and of their obligations under the Council’s Code of Conduct to disclose and appropriately manage conflicts of interest.

Please refer to Part 4 of Council’s Code of Conduct for Pecuniary Interests and Part 5 of Council’s Code of Conduct for Non-Pecuniary Interests.

The Oath or Affirmation taken is as below:

Oath:

I [name of Councillor] swear that I will undertake the duties of the office of Councillor in the best interests of the people of the Ku-ring-gai Local Government area and the Ku-ring-gai Council, and that I will faithfully and impartially carry out the functions, powers, authorities and discretions vested in me under the Local Government Act 1993 or any other Act to the best of my ability and judgement.

Affirmation:

I [name of Councillor] solemnly and sincerely declare and affirm that I will undertake the duties of the office of Councillor in the best interests of the people of the Ku-ring-gai Local Government area and the Ku-ring-gai Council, and that I will faithfully and impartially carry out the functions, powers, authorities and discretions vested in me under the Local Government Act 1993 or any other Act to the best of my ability and judgement.

APOLOGIEs

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

Documents Circulated to Councillors

Confirmation of Reports to be Considered in Closed Meeting

NOTE:

That in accordance with the provisions of Section 10 of the Local Government Act 1993, all officers’ reports be released to the press and public, with the exception of confidential attachments to the following General Business reports:

GB.9 RFT13-2025 Road Upgrade Iona Avenue West Pymble

In accordance with 10A(2)(d)(i):

Attachment 1: RFT13-2025 – Road upgrade - Iona Avenue West Pymble - Tender Evaluation Plan

In accordance with 10A(2)(d)(i):

Attachment 2: RFT13-2025 – Road upgrade - Iona Avenue West Pymble - List of Submitters

In accordance with 10A(2)(d)(i):

Attachment 3: RFT13-2025 - Road Upgrade - Iona Avenue West Pymble - Tender Evaluation Report - signed

GB.11 Planning Proposal for 1364-1396 Pacific Hwy and 1, 1A, 3 and 3A Kissing Point Rd Turramurra (Turramurra Plaza) - Post Exhibition

In accordance with 10A(2)(a):

Attachment 10: Public Exhibition - consolidated submissions

In accordance with 10A(2)(a):

Attachment 11: Public Hearing - consolidated submissions

GB.12 Nominations to the Flood Risk Management Committee

In accordance with 10A(2)(a):

Attachment 1: Confidential Attachment - Nominations for the Flood Risk Management Committee 2026

CONFIRMATION OF MINUTEs

Minutes of Ordinary Meeting of Council 9

File: EM00049/1

Meeting held 17 February 2026

Minutes numbered 01 to 28

Minutes of Extraordinary Meeting 38

File: EM00055

Meeting held 25 February 2026

Minutes numbered –Minutes not uploaded. Enter starting minute number here– to –Enter ending minute number here–

minutes from the Mayor

Petitions

PT.1 Urgently Install Footpath on Lower St Johns Avenue Gordon 41

File: EM00049/2

On 13 November 2025, a beloved resident was struck by a passing car while undertaking his daily walk of the street - something he had done for 45 years. We, the residents of Ku-ring-gai Council, demand a footpath be installed for the safety of pedestrians on this popular and highly active street.

The section currently without footpath commences from Lynne Ridge Avenue and ends at 147 St Johns Ave, spanning approximately 700 metres. The road is frequented by all walks of life:

· Young families walking prams

· Adults exercising (running and walking)

· Adults and children commuting to the station/bus stop

· Children walking / cycling to school (walking distance to Killara Public, Gordon West Public)

· Elderly keeping active and socialising

· Families walking dogs and accessing the popular greenspace Blackbutt Creek Track.

This foot traffic largely utilises the road due to root growth and the uneven surface of the verge, which causes significant trip hazards.

We are conducting a survey to show more specific frequency of use. This data will be provided to Council alongside the signatures here (in addition to those collected in person) at the Public Forum ahead of Council Meeting (timing TBC).

Additional measures including installing speed bumps will also be recommended to council to assist in reducing vehicle speed on the street.

We will be imploring swift action and re-alignment of priorities within the upcoming year to ensure no other pedestrians meet the same fate on our street.

(528 signatures)

Recommendation:

That the petition be received and referred to the appropriate Officer of Council for attention.

GENERAL BUSINESS

i. The Mayor to invite Councillors to nominate any item(s) on the Agenda that they wish to have a site inspection.

ii. The Mayor to invite Councillors to nominate any item(s) on the Agenda that they wish to adopt in accordance with the officer’s recommendation allowing for minor changes without debate.

GB.1 Youth Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes Wednesday 4 February 2026 43

File: S04477

To present the minutes of the Youth Advisory Committee meeting held on 4 February 2026.

Recommendation:

That Council endorses the minutes of the Youth Advisory Committee meeting held on 4 February 2026.

GB.2 Multicultural Advisory Committee
Meeting Minutes 5 February 2026 50

File: S04141

To provide Council with the minutes from the Multicultural Advisory Committee meeting held on 5 February 2026

Recommendation:

That Council endorse the minutes of the Multicultural Advisory Committee meeting held on 5 February 2026

GB.3 Ku-ring-gai Local Transport Forum -
Minutes of Meeting 18 February 2026 58

File: CY00022/18

To consider the Minutes from the Ku-ring-gai Local Transport Forum (LTF) Meeting held on 18 February 2026.

Recommendation:

A. That Council receive and note the Ku-ring-gai Local Transport Forum (LTF) Minutes held on 18 February 2026.

B. That Council approves the recommendations of the Ku-ring-gai Local Transport Forum held on 18 February 2026.

GB.4 Investment Report as at 28 February 2026 77

File: FY00623/8

To present Council’s investment portfolio performance for February 2026.

Recommendation:

That the summary of investments performance for February 2026 be received and noted; and that the Certificate of the Responsible Accounting Officer be noted and the report adopted.

GB.5 Delivery Program and Operational Plan: December 2025 Biannual report 85

File: S14767

To present to Council a summary of progress of the Delivery Program 2025-2029 and Operational Plan 2025-2026, for the six month period July to December 2025.

Recommendation:

That:

A. the report on the six-monthly progress review of the Delivery Program 2025-2029 and Operational Plan 2025-2026 for the period July to December 2025 be received and noted.

B. Council amends specific 2025/26 actions as recommended in the report.

GB.6 Petitions Policy - Post-exhibition report 198

File: EM00049/2

To seek Council endorsement of a new Petitions Policy to formalise the process for the consistent and transparent management of public petitions.

Recommendation:

That Council adopt the Petitions Policy.

GB.7 Review of Joint Organisations (JO) Framework 215

File: CY00430/14

To inform Council of the Minister for Local Government’s intention to review the Joint Organisation (JO) framework and boundaries and respond to the Minister’s invitation to join or create a JO.

Recommendation:

That Council formally advise the Office of Local Government of its intention to continue regional collaboration through the Northern Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils (NSROC).

GB.8 Community Access to Automated External Defibrillators (AED) Across Council Facilities "LACHY'S HEARTSTART PROJECT" 222

File: S15185

This report provides Council with information about providing community access to Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) across Council facilities.

Recommendation:

That Council:

A. Implement Stage 1 (Sportsfields - 60 AEDs) and Stage 2 (Community buildings - 10 AEDs) in the 2026/27 financial year.

B. Include an increase to relevant fees in the draft 2026/27 Fees & Charges for exhibition, to offset the annualised whole of life cost of installing, maintaining and monitoring the AEDs, phased in over two financial years commencing 2026/27.

C. Consider funding Stage 3 (Playground and Off leash Parks) and Stage 4 (Reserves) during preparation of the 2027/28 DP&OP.

GB.9 RFT13-2025 Road Upgrade Iona Avenue West Pymble 243

File: RFT13-2025/R

To consider the tenders received for RFT13-2025 Road Upgrade Iona Avenue West Pymble and to appoint the preferred tenderer.

Recommendation:

In accordance with Section 55 of the Local Government Act and Tender Regulation 2021, it is recommended Council accept the Tender submitted by Tenderer A.

GB.10 Ku-ring-gai Heritage Strategy 248

File: S12203

To provide Council with an assessment of the implementation of the Action Plan included in the Ku-ring-gai Heritage Strategy August 2021.

Recommendation:

That the report be received and noted.

GB.11 Planning Proposal for 1364-1396 Pacific Hwy and 1, 1A, 3 and 3A Kissing Point Rd Turramurra (Turramurra Plaza) - Post Exhibition 278

File: S14408

For Council to consider submissions in response to the public exhibition of the Planning Proposal and site specific DCP for 1364-1396 Pacific Hwy and 1, 1A, 3 and 3A Kissing Point Rd, Turramurra (Turramurra Plaza).

Recommendation:

That Council:

1. That Council adopts the Planning Proposal for 1364-1396 Pacific Highway and 1, 1a, 3 and 3a Kissing Point Road, Turramurra.

2. That Council adopt the amended site specific DCP

3. That Council endorse the reclassification of its land at 1A, 3 and 3A Kissing Point Rd Turramurra from Community land to Operational land.

4. That the Planning Proposal be submitted to the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure for finalisation.

GB.12 Nominations to the Flood Risk Management Committee 503

File: S10746

To appoint community representatives to the Flood Risk Management Committee.

Recommendation:

Selected nominations are accepted and adopted.

Extra Reports Circulated to Meeting

BUSINESS WITHOUT NOTICE – SUBJECT TO CLAUSE 9.3 OF code of meeting practice

Questions With Notice

InspectionS– SETTING OF TIME, DATE AND RENDEZVOUS

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Minute Ku-ring-gai Council Page

MINUTES OF Ordinary Meeting of Council
HELD ON Tuesday, 17 February 2026

Present:	The Mayor, Councillor Christine Kay (Chairperson) Councillors M Devlin & J Pettett (Comenarra Ward) Councillors I Balachandran & B Ward (Gordon Ward) Councillors S Ngai & A Taylor (Roseville Ward) Councillor M Smith (St Ives Ward) Councillor C Spencer (Wahroonga Ward)

Staff Present:	Acting General Manager (Andrew Watson) Acting Director Community (Michelle Swan-Beardmore) Director Corporate (Angela Apostol) Director Development & Regulation (Michael Miocic) Director Operations (Peter Lichaa) Corporate Lawyer (Jamie Taylor) Acting Manager Corporate Communications (Sally Williams) Manager Governance and Corporate Strategy (Christopher M Jones) Acting Governance Team Leader (Eliza Gilbank-Heim)

Others Present:	Manager People & Culture (Jennie Keato) Manager Urban & Heritage Planning (Antony Fabbro) Executive Urban Planner (Rathna Rana)

The Meeting commenced at 7:00 PM

The Mayor offered the Acknowledgement of Country and Prayer

Apologies

File: S02194

The Mayor advised of an apology from Councillor Wheatley as she is overseas.

The Acting General Manager advised of an apology from the General Manager, David Marshall, as he is on personal leave.

Resolved:

(Moved: Councillors Devlin/Smith)

That the apologies be accepted and leave of absence granted.

For the Resolution: The Mayor, Councillor Kay, Councillors Balachandran, Devlin, Ngai, Pettett, Smith, Spencer, Taylor and Ward

Against the Resolution: None

Absent: Councillor Wheatley

CARRIED

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

The Mayor referred to the necessity for Councillors and staff to declare a Pecuniary Interest/Conflict of Interest in any item on the Business Paper.

No Interest was declared.

DOCUMENTS CIRCULATED TO COUNCILLORS

The Mayor referred to the documents circulated in the Councillors’ papers and advised that the following matters would be dealt with at the appropriate time during the meeting:

Late Items:

MM.4 - Recognising the achievements of local Winter Olympians - Report by the Mayor dated 9 February 2026

GB.17 - Exhibition of NSW Government's Strategic Planning Documents - Draft Submissions - Report by Director Strategy & Environment dated 23 January 2026 with attachments.

MM.5 - Council Partnership to Support Jewish Community Mental Health and Wellbeing - Report by the Mayor dated 16 February 2026

Memorandums:

A Confidential Memorandum for GB.14 Heritage Housekeeping Planning Proposal was circulated to the Mayor and Councillors on 6 February 2026.

A Confidential Memorandum for GB.15 Post-exhibition consideration of submissions Part 5 Dual Occupancy DCP was circulated to the Mayor and Councillors on 6 February 2026.

A Memorandum for GB.15 Post-exhibition consideration of submissions Part 5 Dual Occupancy DCP was circulated to the Mayor and Councillors on 13 February 2026.

CONFIRMATION OF REPORTS TO BE CONSIDERED IN CLOSED MEETING

File: S02499/9

Resolved:

(Moved: Councillors Taylor/Ward)

That in accordance with the provisions of Section 10 of the Local Government Act 1993, all officers’ reports be released to the press and public, with the exception of:

C.1 Project Review - Action Plan

GB.4 Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee – Appointment of External Independent Member

In accordance with 10A(2)(a):

Attachment A1: Overview of Selection process

Attachment A2: Candidate Applications

GB.12 RFT6-2025 Lift Replacement Gordon Library

In accordance with 10A(2)(d)(iii):

Attachment A1: List of tenders received

Attachment A2 Tender Evaluation Report and Recommendation

For the Resolution: The Mayor, Councillor Kay, Councillors Balachandran, Devlin, Ngai, Pettett, Smith, Spencer, Taylor and Ward

Against the Resolution: None

Absent: Councillor Wheatley

CARRIED

CONFIRMATION OF MINUTEs

Minutes of Ordinary Meeting of Council

File: EM00046/11

Meeting held 16 December 2025

Minutes numbered 237 to 265

Resolved:

(Moved: Councillors Taylor/Ward)

That Minutes numbered 237 to 265 circulated to Councillors were taken as read and confirmed as an accurate record of the proceedings of the Meeting.

For the Resolution: The Mayor, Councillor Kay, Councillors Balachandran, Devlin, Ngai, Pettett, Smith, Spencer, Taylor and Ward

Against the Resolution: None

Absent: Councillor Wheatley

CARRIED

The Mayor addressed the Council to acknowledge the celebration of Chinese New Year / Lunar New Year, and invited Councillors to address the meeting. Councillors Ward, Spencer and Balachandran spoke on this matter.

minutes from the Mayor

2026 Australia Day Honours
and Citizen of the Year Awards

File: CY00785/5

Vide: MM.1

I am pleased to inform you that eight members of the Ku-ring-gai community, through their outstanding achievements and services to the community, have been awarded 2026 Australia Day Honours.

We are very proud to have these dedicated and talented Australians as members of the Ku-ring-gai community.

I would like to read to you the names of these Australia Day Honours recipients and, on behalf of Council, congratulate them on their excellent contributions to Australian society.

Professor John CANNON AO, of Killara, for distinguished service to tertiary education, to mathematical computation, to cryptography, and to the development of algebraic software systems.

Mrs Ruth Lorraine HAVRLANT OAM, of Pymble, for service to netball.

Ms Penelope Cathcart HOLDEN OAM, of Killara, for service to community history.

Ms Anne Inkeri HOLLONDS AO, of Roseville, for distinguished service to family, children and community safety, wellbeing and human rights, and to policy, research and practice.

Dr Michael Jeffrey HOOPER AM, of Gordon, for significant service to endocrinology, and to biomedical musculoskeletal research.

Ms Elizabeth Maria MONTANO AM, of Pymble, for significant service to public administration, particularly in law enforcement, regulation and governance.

Mr Robert John PAGE OAM, of Wahroonga, for service to community social welfare.

Dr Andrew Pilcher WINES AM, of Killara, for significant service to orthopaedic surgery, and to the community.

I also congratulate Ku-ring-gai Citizen of the Year winners for 2026:

Citizen of the Year – Dean Simes

Young Citizen of the Year – Angelina Barndall

Environmental Citizen of the Year – Jill Green

Mayor’s Award for an Outstanding Contribution

by a Community Group – Ku-ring-gai SES

On behalf of Council, I congratulate all these award winners on their outstanding achievements.

Ku-ring-gai should be proud that it has citizens being recognised at the highest level for their selfless dedication, commitment and contribution to local, national and international communities.

Resolved:

(Moved: The Mayor, Councillor Kay)

A. That Council acknowledge the outstanding contribution made by these recipients of 2026 Australia Day Honours to the Ku-ring-gai community and to the well-being of our society.

B. That the Mayor write to the recipients on behalf of Council to congratulate them on receiving their award, including a copy of this Mayoral Minute

For the Resolution: The Mayor, Councillor Kay, Councillors Balachandran, Devlin, Ngai, Pettett, Smith, Spencer, Taylor and Ward

Against the Resolution: None

Absent: Councillor Wheatley

CARRIED

Recognition of lifetime contribution of Ms Penny Lancaster to dance education in Australia

File: CY00455/13

Vide: MM.2

I would like to recognise the extraordinary decades-long contribution of Ms Penny Lancaster - Founder and Director of Australian Dance Vision (ADV), and her service to the Australian dance sector. As she retired at the end of 2025, I believe her achievements deserve public recognition and celebration.

Penny’s work began at the grassroots level in Sydney when she conceived and founded a youth company Ballet d’Action, an early expression of her vision for holistic training combining performance, choreography and contextual dance studies. Building on that foundation, she led the development of a progressive classical ballet syllabus over many years and expanded it to include jazz and tap - an educational model that became widely used across the country.

She founded Australian Dance Vision (ADV) in 1989 and subsequently helped to establish the Australian Dance Institute (ADI).

Under Penny’s leadership, ADV produced the first suite of nationally recognised vocational dance qualifications in Australia (Certificates I–IV in Dance Performance Studies and Certificate IV in Dance Teaching & Management. She achieved endorsement of the Certificate III in Dance Performance Studies for the HSC and therefore helped create education and career pathways for thousands of students and teachers.

As a former professional dancer trained in classical ballet Penny brought deep artistic experience to education. Her performances included dancing with the Young Australian Ballet Company, work with the Australian National Theatre and international collaborations which enriched her teaching and mentoring. Over the decades she has taught and guided thousands of students through her Sydney-based academy and beyond.

Penny was Vice President of both the Society of Dance Arts and Ausdance NSW, a member of the Board of Studies Syllabus Advisory Committee and various national education panels, steering and advisory committees.

She received the Centenary Medal, the Zonta Woman of Achievement Award, and nominations for awards such as NSW Woman of the Year and the Avon Award in the Arts for her work in teaching thousands of dancers across Australia.

I would like to honour Penny’s outstanding service to dance education and her contribution to the cultural life of Australia.

Resolved:

(Moved: The Mayor, Councillor Kay)

A. That this Mayoral Minute be received and noted

B. That a copy of this Mayoral Minute be sent to Ms Penny Lancaster with a letter from the Mayor congratulating her on the outstanding achievements

For the Resolution: The Mayor, Councillor Kay, Councillors Balachandran, Devlin, Ngai, Pettett, Smith, Spencer, Taylor and Ward

Against the Resolution: None

Absent: Councillor Wheatley

CARRIED

Rescheduling of March 2026 Public Forum

File: EM00049/10

Vide: MM.3

This Mayoral Minute recommends that Council reschedule the March Public Forum to Wednesday 11 March 2026 to enable Councillors to attend a significant civic and community event.

Councillors have received an invitation to attend a special service at The Great Synagogue on Tuesday 10 March 2026, marking both the Opening of the Law Term for 2026 and the rededication of the synagogue’s sanctuary following major restoration and enhancement works. This occasion is of exceptional significance.

It will be attended by the Chief Justice of New South Wales, members of the Judiciary and the legal profession, the Governor-General of Australia, and the Chief Rabbi of the Commonwealth. The event also carries particular importance for the Jewish community, in the context of the recent tragedy at Bondi and will reflect on themes of resilience, remembrance and renewal.

Rescheduling the Public Forum by one day will allow Councillors to attend this important service while ensuring that community participation in the Public Forum is maintained with minimal disruption.

Resolved:

(Moved: The Mayor, Councillor Kay)

That Council move the March 2026 Public Forum to Wednesday 11 March 2026 at 7.00pm.

For the Resolution: The Mayor, Councillor Kay, Councillors Balachandran, Devlin, Ngai, Pettett, Smith, Spencer, Taylor and Ward

Against the Resolution: None

Absent: Councillor Wheatley

CARRIED

Recognising the achievements of local Winter Olympians

File: CY00455/14

Vide: MM.4

Through this Mayoral Minute I would like to recognise the achievements of some local Winter Olympians who will be competing in the 2026 Winter Olympics at Milano Cortina in Italy.

Kyra Wheatley, the daughter of Councillor Kim Wheatley, will represent Australia in ski cross in Livigno at the 2026 Olympic Winter Games.

Kyra got her first taste of the Games environment when she competed at the Winter Youth Olympic Games in 2020.

Born and raised on the North Shore, Kyra is a long-time member of the Perisher Winter Sports Club. She thrived on the camaraderie of Australian winters and the wider snow sports community overseas.

As a junior, she was a versatile skiing talent before narrowing her focus to ski cross. That decision quickly translated to the U16 Australian Alpine title and the New Zealand U16 Youth Series crown in 2018, followed by Australian U18 Giant Slalom and Slalom titles in 2019.

Her form was strong enough to earn selection for the World Cup Championships in Engadin–St Moritz in 2025, but a shoulder and knee injury ended her season.

Despite this setback Kyra was named Snow Australia’s Female Ski Cross Athlete of the Year for 2025, with her World Cup debut and consistent European Cup form singled out by selectors in their decision to include her in the Olympic squad.

I also commend two other Ku-ring-gai based Winter Olympians competing this year.

Danielle Scott, also a former Pymble Ladies College alumni along with Kyra, will be competing in the Freestyle Skiing (Aerials) category. This will be Danielle's fourth Olympic Games.

Rosie Fordham a former Abbotsleigh student has been selected for the Cross Country Skiing team following a record-breaking 2025 season.

On behalf of the Ku-ring-gai community and Council, we wish these young athletes and the Australian team every success at the Winter Olympics.

Resolved:

(Moved: The Mayor, Councillor Kay)

That this Mayoral Minute be received and noted

For the Resolution: The Mayor, Councillor Kay, Councillors Balachandran, Devlin, Ngai, Pettett, Smith, Spencer, Taylor and Ward

Against the Resolution: None

Absent: Councillor Wheatley

CARRIED

Council Partnership to Support Jewish Community Mental Health and Wellbeing

File: S04921

Vide: MM.5

I wish to inform Council of a proposed collaborative initiative between Ku-ring-gai Council and Sydney North Health Network (Northern Sydney PHN) to co-host a community roundtable aimed at supporting the mental health and wellbeing of the local Jewish community. As the Ku-ring-gai Local Government Area is home to the largest Jewish population within the northern Sydney region, this partnership provides an important opportunity to work proactively with community leaders and service providers to better understand local needs, strengthen coordinated responses, and ensure initiatives are culturally responsive.

Following a meeting held on 28 January 2026 with a representative from Sydney North Health Network, we discussed the value of adopting a coordinated, community-informed approach to mental health and wellbeing. This initiative reflects Council’s ongoing commitment to fostering an inclusive, connected, and resilient community while working in partnership with key stakeholders.

The proposed roundtable will bring together Jewish community leaders, representatives from faith-based and multicultural organisations, service-based agencies, and the Police Area Command to facilitate meaningful dialogue on the mental health and wellbeing priorities of the Jewish community. The session is intended to promote a collaborative, community-led approach to identifying needs, sharing insights, and strengthening partnerships that directly support the Jewish community while also informing broader regional planning. By creating a forum for open engagement, Council and the PHN aim to ensure that initiatives are grounded in lived experience and responsive to the unique challenges faced by the Jewish community in northern Sydney.

This consultation will also help inform how funding provided through the PHN is directed. The funding available totals $114,000 for the 2026 financial year and $233,472 for 2027, and insights gathered through the roundtable will guide its allocation to achieve the greatest benefit for the Jewish community while reinforcing a coordinated regional approach to wellbeing.

Council and Sydney North Health Network propose to convene the roundtable in early March, allowing sufficient lead time to support strong participation. I have agreed to co-chair the discussion in recognition of Council’s commitment to collaborative leadership. Council will assist in identifying appropriate stakeholders and confirming logistical arrangements, while the PHN will distribute invitations and coordinate attendance, with follow-up undertaken jointly as required.

This initiative provides Council with an opportunity to work closely with health partners and community leaders to better understand local needs, strengthen trusted relationships, and support a proactive, unified, and culturally responsive approach to mental health and wellbeing.

Resolved:

(Moved: The Mayor, Councillor Kay)

That Council endorse the Mayor to co-chair a community mental health and wellbeing roundtable with Sydney North Health Network (Northern Sydney PHN) to directly support the Jewish community and guide the allocation of PHN funding through a coordinated, community-led approach

For the Resolution: The Mayor, Councillor Kay, Councillors Balachandran, Devlin, Ngai, Pettett, Smith, Spencer, Taylor and Ward

Against the Resolution: None

Absent: Councillor Wheatley

CARRIED

PETITIONS

Parking in Hill Street, Roseville

File: EM00049/10

Vide: PT.1

Petition to Ku-ring-gai Council

Principal petitioner: Joseph Speziale

Current parking restrictions in the Roseville Shopping Precinct are 8.30am to 6pm Monday to Friday and Saturday morning 8.30am to 12.30pm.

This leaves unrestricted parking for most of the weekend on Hill Street and the top end of Lord Street. How ever restrictions in the Lord Street carpark remain 7 days 8.30am to 6pm.

It is impossible for our customers to find a parking space on the weekend, as all available parking spaces are taken by train commuters who park in Roseville and train to the city or like locations. While the carpark remains empty due to restrictions

Most stores in Hill Street trade 7 days a week, until late. Many customers and residents complain they cannot park near the shops on Saturday and Sunday due to commuter parking in Hill and Lord Street.

We, the collective of business and property owners of Roseville, hereby request Ku Ring Gai Council to extend the existing parking restrictions on Hill Street and the top end of Lord Street to 7 days. 15 min parking from 8am to 7pm.Longer time parking is available in the carpark.

We are also in need of a loading zone. There is now parking in Hill St for trucks doing

deliveries. Often leading to double parking out on necessity.

The residents and visitors to Roseville also deserve the respect and human right of a toilet!

Long overdue.

Maybe we could also get the gutters cleaned one in a while!

Council has not spent a penny on Roseville in the past 40 years!

(5 signatures)

Resolved:

(Moved: Councillors Ngai/Taylor)

That the petition be received and referred to the appropriate Officer of Council for attention.

For the Resolution: The Mayor, Councillor Kay, Councillors Balachandran, Devlin, Ngai, Pettett, Smith, Spencer, Taylor and Ward

Against the Resolution: None

Absent: Councillor Wheatley

CARRIED

GENERAL BUSINESS

Minutes of Audit, Risk & Improvement Committee meeting held on 11 December 2025

File: CY00458/14

Vide: GB.1

To provide Council with the minutes from the Audit, Risk & Improvement Committee meeting held on 11 December 2025 and the FY24/25 ARIC Annual Report.

Resolved:

(Moved: Councillors Ward/Balachandran)

It is recommended that:

The minutes from the Audit, Risk & Improvement Committee meeting held on 11 December 2025 be adopted, and

B. The FY24/25 ARIC Annual Report be noted.

For the Resolution: The Mayor, Councillor Kay, Councillors Balachandran, Devlin, Ngai, Pettett, Smith, Spencer, Taylor and Ward

Against the Resolution: None

Absent: Councillor Wheatley

CARRIED

Multicultural Advisory Committee -
Minutes of Meeting 27 November 2025

File: S04141

Vide: GB.2

To provide Council with the minutes from the Multicultural Advisory Committee meeting held on 27 November 2025

Resolved:

(Moved: Councillors Ward/Balachandran)

That Council endorses the minutes of the Multicultural Advisory Committee meeting held on 27 November 2025.

For the Resolution: The Mayor, Councillor Kay, Councillors Balachandran, Devlin, Ngai, Pettett, Smith, Spencer, Taylor and Ward

Against the Resolution: None

Absent: Councillor Wheatley

CARRIED

Smart Transport Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes of 26 November 2025

File: S02696

Vide: GB.3

To consider the minutes of the Smart Transport Advisory Committee (STAC) meeting held on 26 November 2025.

Resolved:

(Moved: Councillors Ward/Balachandran)

That Council adopts the minutes of the Smart Transport Advisory Committee meeting held on 26 November 2025, in relation to micromobility and active transport to schools.

For the Resolution: The Mayor, Councillor Kay, Councillors Balachandran, Devlin, Ngai, Pettett, Smith, Spencer, Taylor and Ward

Against the Resolution: None

Absent: Councillor Wheatley

CARRIED

Analysis of Land and Environment Court Costs - 2nd Quarter 2025 to 2026

File: FY00623/8

Vide: GB.6

To report legal costs in relation to development appeal matters in the Land and Environment Court for the quarter ended 31 December 2025.

Resolved:

(Moved: Councillors Ward/Balachandran)

That the analysis of Land and Environment Court costs for the period ended 31 December 2025 be received and noted.

For the Resolution: The Mayor, Councillor Kay, Councillors Balachandran, Devlin, Ngai, Pettett, Smith, Spencer, Taylor and Ward

Against the Resolution: None

Absent: Councillor Wheatley

CARRIED

Investment Report as at 31 December 2025

File: FY00623/8

Vide: GB.7

To present Council’s investment portfolio performance for December 2025.

Resolved:

(Moved: Councillors Ward/Balachandran)

That:

A. The summary of investments and performance for December 2025 be received and noted.

B. The Certificate of the Responsible Accounting Officer be noted and the report adopted.

For the Resolution: The Mayor, Councillor Kay, Councillors Balachandran, Devlin, Ngai, Pettett, Smith, Spencer, Taylor and Ward

Against the Resolution: None

Absent: Councillor Wheatley

CARRIED

Investment Report as at 31 January 2026

File: FY00623/8

Vide: GB.8

To present Council’s investment portfolio performance for January 2026.

Resolved:

(Moved: Councillors Ward/Balachandran)

That:

A. The summary of investments and performance for January 2026 be received and noted.

B. The Certificate of the Responsible Accounting Officer be noted and the report adopted.

For the Resolution: The Mayor, Councillor Kay, Councillors Balachandran, Devlin, Ngai, Pettett, Smith, Spencer, Taylor and Ward

Against the Resolution: None

Absent: Councillor Wheatley

CARRIED

2025 ALGA National General Assembly of Local Government

File: CY00052/17

Vide: GB.9

To inform Councillors of an invitation from the Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) to submit motions for debate to the 2025 National General Assembly of Local Government (NGA).

Resolved:

(Moved: Councillors Ward/Balachandran)

That any Councillors interested in attending the NGA notify the General Manager by 27 February 2026.

For the Resolution: The Mayor, Councillor Kay, Councillors Balachandran, Devlin, Ngai, Pettett, Smith, Spencer, Taylor and Ward

Against the Resolution: None

Absent: Councillor Wheatley

CARRIED

Response from the Minister about restrictions on Councillor attendance at meetings by audio visual link

File: S14000/2

Vide: GB.10

To present Council with response from the Minister for Local Government regarding the limitations on audio-visual attendance at Council meetings under the new Model Code of Meeting Practice.

Resolved:

(Moved: Councillors Ward/Balachandran)

That Council receive and note Council’s correspondence and the Minister’s response.

For the Resolution: The Mayor, Councillor Kay, Councillors Balachandran, Devlin, Ngai, Pettett, Smith, Spencer, Taylor and Ward

Against the Resolution: None

Absent: Councillor Wheatley

CARRIED

Project Status Report - February 2026

File: FY00621/8

Vide: GB.11

To provide Council with the Project Status Report for October 2025 – December 2025.

Resolved:

(Moved: Councillors Ward/Balachandran)

A. That Council receive and note the Project Status Report for the period October 2025 – December 2025.

B. That the Project Status Report be placed on Council’s website.

For the Resolution: The Mayor, Councillor Kay, Councillors Balachandran, Devlin, Ngai, Pettett, Smith, Spencer, Taylor and Ward

Against the Resolution: None

Absent: Councillor Wheatley

CARRIED

RFT6-2025 Lift Replacement Gordon Library

File: RFT6-2025/R

Vide: GB.12

To consider the tenders received for RFT6-2025 Lift Replacement Gordon Library and to appoint the preferred tenderer.

Resolved:

(Moved: Councillors Ward/Balachandran)

That:

A. As a result of considering the tenders submitted for the proposed RFT6-2025 Lift replacement Gordon Library contract, and pursuant to Clause 178(1) of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021 (“the Regulation”), Council declines to accept any of the tenders.

B. Fresh tenders as referred to in clause 178(3)(b)-(d) of the Regulation not be invited due to the current condition of the lift and the received tenderers meeting Council’s requirements.

C. Pursuant to clause 178(3)(e) of the Regulation, the General Manager enter into negotiations with any person (whether or not the person was a tenderer) with a view to entering into a contract in relation to the subject matter of the tender in terms acceptable to Council’s requirements.

D. The Mayor and the General Manager be delegated authority to execute all documents on Council’s behalf in relation to any contract formed as a result of the above.

E. The Seal of Council be affixed to all necessary documents.

F. All tenderers be advised of Council’s decision in accordance with clause 178 of the Regulation.

For the Resolution: The Mayor, Councillor Kay, Councillors Balachandran, Devlin, Ngai, Pettett, Smith, Spencer, Taylor and Ward

Against the Resolution: None

Absent: Councillor Wheatley

CARRIED

NSW Government Exhibition of Three Strategic Planning Documents

File: S15180

Vide: GB.13

To inform Council of the public exhibition of the NSW Government’s three strategic planning documents and outline Council’s proposed approach to preparing a separate submission.

Resolved:

(Moved: Councillors Ward/Balachandran)

That Council:

A. Notes the public exhibition of the NSW Government’s three strategic planning documents; and

B. Notes that a further report outlining Council’s proposed submission will be presented to Council closer to the February Ordinary Meeting of Council.

For the Resolution: The Mayor, Councillor Kay, Councillors Balachandran, Devlin, Ngai, Pettett, Smith, Spencer, Taylor and Ward

Against the Resolution: None

Absent: Councillor Wheatley

CARRIED

Heritage Housekeeping Planning Proposal

File: S14986

Vide: GB.14

For Council to consider submissions made in response to the exhibition of the Heritage Housekeeping planning proposal. The planning proposal corrects five (5) local heritage listings and associated maps in the suburbs of Turramurra and Wahroonga.

Resolved:

(Moved: Councillors Ward/Balachandran)

A. That Council adopt the Heritage Housekeeping Planning Proposal as described in this report and attachments.

B. That Council proceed to make the plan, using its delegated authority under section 3.36(2) of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.

C. That delegation be given to the Director Strategy and Environment to correct any errors or inconsistencies in the planning proposal prior to finalisation.

D. Those persons who made a submission be notified of Council’s decision.

For the Resolution: The Mayor, Councillor Kay, Councillors Balachandran, Devlin, Ngai, Pettett, Smith, Spencer, Taylor and Ward

Against the Resolution: None

Absent: Councillor Wheatley

CARRIED

Post-exhibition consideration of submissions Part 5 Dual Occupancy DCP

File: S14848

Vide: GB.15

For Council to consider submissions made to the exhibition of dual occupancy development controls to be inserted into the Ku-ring-gai Development Control Plan.

Resolved:

(Moved: Councillors Ward/Balachandran)

A. That Council adopts the:

i. draft Ku-ring-gai Development Control Plan Part 5 Dual Occupancy, incorporating post-exhibition amendments as detailed in this report and in the memorandum circulated to the Mayor and Councillors on 12 February 2026; and

ii. draft amendments to other sections of the Ku-ring-gai Development Control Plan to ensure consistency with the new dual occupancy controls as detailed in this report and in the memorandum circulated to the Mayor and Councillors on 12 February 2026;

B. That Council’s adoption of the amended Ku-ring-gai Development Control Plan be notified on Council’s website in accordance with Clause 21(4) of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2000.

C. That the amended Ku-ring-gai Development Control Plan comes into effect on the day that it is notified on Council’s website.

D. That people who made a submission be notified of Council’s resolution.

E. That delegation be given to the Director, Strategy and Environment to correct any minor amendments or errors and inconsistencies to the draft KDCP.

For the Resolution: The Mayor, Councillor Kay, Councillors Balachandran, Devlin, Ngai, Pettett, Smith, Spencer, Taylor and Ward

Against the Resolution: None

Absent: Councillor Wheatley

CARRIED

Public Electric Vehicle Charging Proposals - NSW Kerbside Charging Program Round 2

File: S14682

Vide: GB.16

This report presents the community consultation results for on-street electric vehicle (EV) charging locations that have been awarded NSW Government funding and recommends which of these proposals should progress through to planning and design assessments, based on the community consultation results and working group review.

Resolved:

(Moved: Councillors Ward/Balachandran)

A. That Council approves the development and installation of the proposed chargers in Table 2 subject to the necessary assessments and approvals and negotiation of commercial terms required;

B. That Council assess alternative poles within 200 m of the proposed locations in Table 3 and approves the development and installation of the alternative locations, subject to agreement with the charge point operator, the necessary assessments and approvals and negotiation of commercial terms;

C. That authority be given to the General Manager or delegate to execute any documentation required to give effect to this resolution;

D. That Council also agrees in principle to the installation and operation of other public EV Charging Stations from accredited suppliers of public EV Charging Stations in suitable locations across the Ku-ring-gai local government area subject to appropriate community consultation being carried out in the first instance;

E. That the General Manager or his delegate be authorised to negotiate the commercial terms for the installation and operation of the public EV Charging Stations in line with terms set out in the report and any subsequent market evidence; and

F. That subject to the identification of mutually agreed locations and public notification requirements under the Local Government Act 1993 / Roads Act 1993, Council enters into appropriate agreements with the public EV Charging Station providers for the use of land or road reserve associated with the installation and operation of these facilities.

For the Resolution: The Mayor, Councillor Kay, Councillors Balachandran, Devlin, Ngai, Pettett, Smith, Spencer, Taylor and Ward

Against the Resolution: None

Absent: Councillor Wheatley

CARRIED

Audit Risk & Improvement Committee - Appointment of External Independent Member

File: S15112

Vide: GB.4

To consider the appointment of a candidate to the vacant role of external Independent Member on Council’s Audit, Risk & Improvement Committee (ARIC).

MOTION:

(Moved: Councillors Ngai/Smith)

That Applicant 37 as listed in confidential Attachment A1 be appointed as Independent Member on the Audit Risk & Improvement Committee, for a period of four years commencing from 2 March 2026, subject to successful completion of relevant screening.

That future recruitment processes for Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee members include a formal skills matrix, capability gap analysis and documented evaluation scoring, provided to Councillors in confidence, to strengthen governance transparency and consistency with Council’s tender evaluation frameworks.

Resolved:

(Moved: Councillors Ngai/Smith)

That Applicant 37 as listed in confidential Attachment A1 be appointed as Independent Member on the Audit Risk & Improvement Committee, for a period of four years commencing from 2 March 2026, subject to successful completion of relevant screening.

That future recruitment processes for Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee members include a formal skills matrix, capability gap analysis and documented evaluation scoring, provided to Councillors in confidence, to strengthen governance transparency and consistency with Council’s tender evaluation frameworks.

For the Resolution: The Mayor, Councillor Kay, Councillors Balachandran, Devlin, Ngai, Pettett, Smith, Spencer, Taylor and Ward

Against the Resolution: None

Absent: Councillor Wheatley

CARRIED

2025 - 2026 Budget Review - 2nd Quarter ended December 2025

File: FY00701/2

Vide: GB.5

To inform Council of the results of the second quarter budget review of 2025/26 and proposed adjustments to the annual budget based on the actual financial performance and trend for the period 1 July 2025 to 31 December 2025.

Resolved:

(Moved: Councillors Balachandran/Ward)

That the December 2025 Quarterly Budget Review and the recommended changes be received and noted.

For the Resolution: The Mayor, Councillor Kay, Councillors Balachandran, Devlin, Ngai, Pettett, Smith, Spencer, Taylor and Ward

Against the Resolution: None

Absent: Councillor Wheatley

CARRIED

Exhibition of NSW Government's Strategic Planning Documents - Draft Submissions

File: S15180

Vide: GB.17

To provide three draft submissions for Council’s potential endorsement, in order that they can be forwarded to the NSW Government by 27 February 2026.

MOTION:

(Moved: Councillors Devlin/Pettett)

That Council defer consideration and endorsement of the three submissions included as Attachments A1 to A3 to an Extraordinary Meeting of Council to be convened prior to 27^th February 2026 to enable Councillors to properly review the submissions and to provide an opportunity for community awareness before Council resolves its formal position.

Resolved:

(Moved: Councillors Devlin/Pettett)

For the Resolution: The Mayor, Councillor Kay, Councillors Balachandran, Devlin, Ngai, Pettett, Smith, Spencer, Taylor and Ward

Against the Resolution: None

Absent: Councillor Wheatley

CARRIED

Project Review - Action Plan

File: S14999

Vide: C.1

In accordance with the Local Government Act 1993 and the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021, in the opinion of the General Manager, the following business is of a kind as referred to in section 10A(2)(g), of the Act, and should be dealt with in a part of the meeting closed to the public.

Section 10A(2)(g) of the Act permits the meeting to be closed to the public for business relating to advice concerning litigation, or advice that would otherwise be privileged from production in legal proceedings on the ground of legal professional privilege.

This matter is classified confidential under section 10A(2)(g) because it contains advice concerning a legal matter that:

(a) is a substantial issue relating to a matter in which the Council is involved

(b) is clearly identified in the advice, and

It is not in the public interest to release details of the legal advice as it would prejudice Council’s position in court proceedings.

Report by General Manager dated 28 January 2026.

MOTION:

(Moved: Councillors Pettett/Spencer)

That Council receive and note the report, including the detailed action plan.

Updates to action plan implementation status to be reported to Council on a quarterly basis.

Resolved:

(Moved: Councillors Pettett/Spencer)

That Council receive and note the report, including the detailed action plan.

Updates to action plan implementation status to be reported to Council on a quarterly basis.

For the Resolution: The Mayor, Councillor Kay, Councillors Balachandran, Devlin, Ngai, Pettett, Smith, Spencer, Taylor and Ward

Against the Resolution: None

Absent: Councillor Wheatley

CARRIED

Council resolved itself into Closed Meeting
with the Press and Public Excluded to consider a confidential legal matter
after a Motion moved by Councillors Balachandran and Taylor
was CARRIED.

BUSINESS WITHOUT NOTICE – SUBJECT TO CLAUSE 9.3 OF code of meeting practice

A Motion moved by Councillors Balachandran and Taylor
to have the matter dealt with at the meeting
was CARRIED, after the Mayor ruled it to be of urgency ad requiring a decision before the next scheduled ordinary meeting.

Legal advice

File:

Vide: BWN.1

Resolved:

(Moved: Councillors Balachandran/Taylor)

That the actions set out in the note initialled by the Mayor during the meeting be implemented and reported to Council

For the Resolution: The Mayor, Councillor Kay, Councillors Balachandran, Devlin, Ngai, Pettett, Smith, Taylor and Ward

Against the Resolution: Councillor Spencer

Absent: Councillor Wheatley

CARRIED

Council resolved to return to Open Council after a motion was
moved by Councillors Balachandran and Ward
and was CARRIED.

QUESTIONS WITH NOTICE

Nil.

Inspections– SETTING OF TIME, DATE AND RENDEZVOUS

Nil.

The Meeting closed at 8:44pm.

The Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of Council held on 17 February 2026 (Pages 1 - 34) were confirmed as a full and accurate record of proceedings on <Insert confirmation date …>.

__________________________ __________________________

General Manager Mayor / Chairperson

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Community Strategic Plan Long Term Objective	Delivery Program Term Achievement	Operational Plan Task
C1: Work with partners to promote a diverse and inclusive community that cares and provides for all residents.	C1.2: The development of young people is supported by services and programs designed to address their needs and interests	C1.2.3: Provide professional advice and administrative support for the Youth Advisory Committee.

Community Strategic Plan Long Term Objective	Delivery Program Term Achievement	Operational Plan Task
C4.1: Harmonious communities that understand, value and accept each other, and embrace our evolving cultural identities.	C4.1.1: Barriers to social inclusion and participation, and access to social services and community facilities are reduced.	C4.1.1.2: Implement programs in response to identified community needs that promote social inclusion.

Community Strategic Plan Long Term Objective	Delivery Program Term Achievement	Operational Plan Task
A4: Provide, upgrade and maintain Ku-ring-gai’s local road and footpath network, traffic facilities and other road infrastructure.	A4.2: The local road network and associated traffic facilities are improved and maintained.	A4.2.1: Obtain endorsement and approval from the Ku-ring-gai Local Transport Forum and Council for the new or upgraded traffic and pedestrian facilities at identified sites and secure funding. A4.2.2: Support monthly meetings of the Ku-ring-gai Local Transport Forum or as required.

Ordinary Meeting of Council - 17 March 2026	GB.5 / 1

Item GB.5	S14767

Delivery Program and Operational Plan: December 2025 Biannual report

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

purpose of report:	To present to Council a summary of progress of the Delivery Program 2025-2029 and Operational Plan 2025-2026, for the six month period July to December 2025.

background:	Section 404 of the Local Government Act, 1993 requires a progress report to be presented to Council, with respect to the principal activities detailed in the Delivery Program, at least every 6 (six) months.

comments:	This report provides progress results for one-year actions and four-year term achievements contained in the Delivery Program 2025-2029 and Operational Plan 2025-2026.

recommendation:	That: A. the report on the six-monthly progress review of the Delivery Program 2025-2029 and Operational Plan 2025-2026 for the period July to December 2025 be received and noted. B. Council amends specific 2025/26 actions as recommended in the report.

Purpose of Report

To present to Council a summary of progress of the Delivery Program 2025-2029 and Operational Plan 2025-2026, for the six month period July to December 2025.

Background

Council adopted the Delivery Program 2025-2029 and Operational Plan 2025-2026 in June 2025. A progress report must be presented to Council on the principal activities in the Delivery Program at least every 6 months. Progress on the Operational Plan is also included in the review due to the plan’s important contribution to the Delivery Program, and to provide Council with a comprehensive view of progress for the period.

This report provides comments on the progress of one-year actions and four-year term achievements, overall percentage achievement statistics and exception reporting for those items behind schedule. Information is presented under the 5 outcomes in the Delivery Program and Operational Plan.

Council has received September and December quarterly budget review reports for 2025/26 that provided data on the financial position of Council in terms of its income and expenditure, as well as the status of its adopted capital works program. The most recent December 2025 quarterly budget review was reported to Council’s Ordinary Meeting of 17 February 2026.

A revised Delivery Program and Operational Plan for 2026/27 are currently in development and will be presented to Council at its April meeting for consideration and adoption to publicly exhibit.

Comments

The December biannual report (Attachment A1) presents details of the organisation’s progress against term achievements and actions in the Delivery Program and Operational Plan.

Reasons for delays and remedial measures are provided for term achievements and actions behind schedule.

Summary of performance

The following table provides the summary of results at the end of the reporting period:

Item

Green traffic light /tick

Amber traffic light

Red traffic light

White traffic light

Tasks

90%

Nil

Term Achievements

89%

Nil

Explanation of traffic lights/ticks

Tick/ green traffic light – completed (tick) or progressed to schedule (green traffic light).

Amber traffic light - Behind schedule (delayed progress with remedial action required.)

Red traffic light - Significantly behind schedule with actions to address issues included.

White traffic light – Council resolved to not proceed, place on hold or work cannot progress as a direct result of Council’s decision. There were nil tasks or term achievements with a white traffic light in the reporting period.

Performance against one-year tasks

90% of the 228 one-year Operational Plan actions were reported as progressing to schedule at the end of December 2025 with 6% (14) tasks behind schedule and 4% (9) actions significantly behind schedule.

The result for the reporting period is satisfactory. Reasons for delays, proposed remedial measures and comments on risk are included in the commentary for actions reported as not progressing to schedule. Remedial measures include revised timelines, proposed changes to action wording or deferral of actions to 2026/27.

Performance against term achievements

89% of the 56 term achievements were satisfactorily progressed at the end of December 2025. Reasons for delays and remedial measures are included in the commentary for 9% (5) of those term achievements behind schedule and 2% (1) term achievement significantly behind schedule.

Proposed amendments to identified 2025/26 Actions

Attachment A1 includes recommended changes to specific actions in the current 2025-2026 Operational Plan. These include:

· Amendments to the wording of actions to reflect revised phasing of multi-year capital projects, which were endorsed by Council as part of its consideration of the September 2025 Quarterly Budget Review (OMC November 2025)

· Amendments to the wording of actions to reflect revised timelines for urban and strategic planning work. These actions were significantly delayed to enable staff resources to be focused on Council’s alternative TOD plan and other housing policy responses during the six month reporting period.

· Deferral of some actions to the 2026-2027 Operational Plan due to delayed timeframes receiving required guidelines, policy directions and revised dwelling and population forecasts from the DPHI.

Proposed amendments to the actions are summarised in the table below. Further details for each can be found in Attachment A1.

Action Number

Current 2025/26 wording

Proposed Amendment

U3.1.3

Complete detail design plans for priority streetscapes in Pymble, Roseville, St Ives and Turramurra.

The current wording of the 2025/26 action be amended to reflect the revised phasing of the Pymble project as follows: “Complete project scope for streetscape improvements in Pymble local centre.”

Actions to progress detailed designs for Pymble local centre as well as project scope work for other centres at St Ives, Roseville and Turramurra Local Centres to be included in the draft 2026/27 Operational Plan.

U3.1.4

Commence stage 3 construction of streetscape improvement works incorporating Heritage Park and Werona Avenue, Gordon.

The current wording of the 2025/26 action be amended to reflect the revised phasing of the project as follows: “Finalise design for stage 3 works of the St Johns Ave streetscape project incorporating Heritage Park and Werona Ave Streetscape improvements.”

An action to commence construction work will be included in the draft 2026/27 Operational Plan.

incorporating Heritage Park and Werona Avenue Streetscape improvements.

U3.1.6

Progress delivery of works for Fitzsimons Lane/Merriwa Street (east)/Pacific Highway (north), Gordon.

The current wording of the 2025/26 action be amended to reflect the revised phasing of the project as follows: “Finalise design for works for Fitzsimons Lane/Merriwa Street (east)/Pacific Highway (north), Gordon.”

An action to commence construction work to be included in the draft 2026/27 Operational Plan.

U3.2.1

Progress delivery of Bedes Forest upgrade.

The current wording of the 2025/26 action be amended to reflect the revised phasing of the project as follows: “Complete designs and progress the tender preparation process for the Bedes Forest, St Ives upgrade.”

An action to commence construction work to be included in the draft 2026/27 Operational Plan.

U3.2.2

Develop concept plans and deliver improvements to selected neighbourhood centres that achieve place making objectives, informed by community engagement.

The current wording of the 2025/26 action be amended to reflect the revised timeline for the project in the current year as follows: “Progress detailed design plans for East Turramurra neighbourhood centre improvements that achieves place making objectives, informed by community engagement.”

An action to commence construction work to be included in the draft 2026/27 Operational Plan.

A2.1.11

Complete remaining works for the implementation of the adopted
Masterplan at Robert Pymble Park.

The current wording of the 2025/26 action be amended to reflect the revised phasing of the project as follows: “Complete designs for implementation of the remaining works for the adopted Masterplan at Robert Pymble Park.”

An action to commence construction work to be included in the draft 2026/27 Operational Plan.

U2.3.3

Commence review of the implementation of the Local Strategic Planning Statement (LSPS).

Consistent with timelines for required information from the DPHI it is recommended that:

o the current action be removed from the 2025/26 Operational Plan.

o An action is included in the 2026/27 Operational Plan as follows: “Commence review of the implementation of the Local Strategic Planning Statement (LSPS).”

U2.3.5

Prepare a new Employment Lands Strategy in accordance with Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure guidelines.

Consistent with timelines for required information from the DPHI it is recommended that:

o the current Action be removed from the 2025/26 Operational Plan.

o An Action is included in the 2026/27 Operational Plan as follows: “Commence preparation of an Employment Lands Strategy in accordance with the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) guidelines.”

A2.1.8

Continue to engage with the relevant stakeholders in progressing the development of the North Turramurra Recreation Area grandstand.

Advice has been received from Northern Suburbs Football Association that the project cannot proceed at present due to funding issues. Subject to funding becoming available Council officers will engage with relevant stakeholders.

It is recommended that the current wording of the 2025/26 action be amended to reflect the current status of the action as follows: “Continue to engage with the relevant stakeholders in progressing the development of the North Turramurra Recreation Area grandstand if required.”

C2.2.1

Develop and implement a Reconciliation Action Plan.

The current wording of the 2025/26 action be amended as follows to reflect the revised project timeline: “Continue development of a Reconciliation Action Plan.”

Key achievements

Key achievements during the six-month reporting period included the following:

Ø Urban planning and heritage

· Gazettal of Council’s alternative TOD plan for Ku-ring-gai in November following Council’s adoption of the plan in June 2025 and referral to the State Government for approval and gazettal. Preparation of the alternative plan focused on the alternative TOD precincts at Roseville, Lindfield, Killara and Gordon included extensive community engagement on alternative options and liaison with DPHI officers during 2024-2025.

· Adopted Local Character Area provisions for inclusion in Part 14 of Ku-ring-gai’s Development Control Plan.

· Council approved 13 grants as part of the 2025/26 Heritage Home Grants program.

· Prepared and published an innovative educational resource for the interface of heritage items and urban density on Council’s website.

Ø Housing policy

· Council was awarded the top award in the 2025 Planning Institute of Australia (PIA) NSW Awards for Planning Excellence for its alternative plan to the state government’s transport-oriented development (TOD) policy to deliver increased housing densities.

· Gazettal of a minimum 1,105 sqm minimum lot size for dual occupancy development within the Ku-ring-gai local government area, following extensive community engagement.

· Included controls promoting sustainable dual occupancy development in Council’s Development Control Plan to ensure careful consideration and mitigation of environmental impacts from the expected increase in dwellings across Ku-ring-gai.

Ø Housing affordability

· Council adopted an Affordable Housing Contributions Scheme and Amended Affordable Housing Policy for Ku-ring-gai in October 2025.

Ø Community engagement

· Community engagement event held for the development of a masterplan for the former Gordon Bowling Club site was well attended.

· Delivered significant community engagement activities including the two phases of engagement for the Special Rate Variation, Charles Bean surface renewal, on-street EV charging, Night-Time Economy Action Plan, Bannockburn Oval facilities upgrade, numerous major and minor traffic proposals, local infrastructure upgrades and policies including sportsground booking and wet weather.

Ø Bushfire emergency planning

· Council ran a successful series of 'Street Meets' in high bushfire risk areas with the Rural Fire Service and SES present. Twenty events were held, with 932 residents attending. Council covered 157 streets and served 91kg of sausages from a local butcher.

· Completed the following bush fire management works - 3km of fire trails received surface, drainage and vegetation maintenance works; 27ha of Bushfire Asset Protection (APZ) were maintained; 66ha of bushland interface was treated through hazard reduction burning (Avondale East, Devlins, St Ives Showground); 39ha of bushland interface has received planning and field preparation works for future hazard reduction burning activities.

Ø Environmental protection, biodiversity

· The threatened Eastern Pygmy-possum was recorded at 4 of 10 reserves monitored by staff and volunteers in the north and east of the Ku-ring-gai local government area.

· Successful implementation of the second round of the street tree pilot project in North Turramurra. Residents join the Treecare program as Tree Nurturers and maintain street trees with support from Council.

Ø Sustainability and climate change

· The installation of electric vehicle fast chargers at Turramurra and East Killara increased the number of charging ports in Ku-ring-gai by 22% and doubled the available charging capacity.

· The Energy Smart rebate program processed 212 rebates with total rebates dispersed of $53,000.

· Council has 322 registered Net Zero Champion volunteers who support community outreach by hosting events and providing advice to residents. In addition, 122 volunteers participate in the Ku-ring-gai Composting Network. During the period, Council worked with these volunteers to deliver a range of initiatives, including a solar car racing school workshop, home energy workshops, and kids and teen clothing swaps.

· Compost Revolution Online sold and delivered 28 compost bins and 11 worm farms to residents.

· Council was successful in obtaining a litter bin grant to trial bottle and other recycling.

· A Chemical Clean out drop off event was held in November 2025 with over 2,000 residents attending to drop off their chemical items.

· Council developed new partnerships including supporting 12 research projects across five universities, one research centre and two independent consultancies.

· Implementation of stage 1 of the electronic vehicle commercial public charging bay project.

Ø Recreation, open space and community facilities

· Construction of the St Ives Indoor Sports Centre was completed in December 2025. The facility will open to the public on 2nd February 2026 with an official opening ceremony scheduled for 13th February 2026. Council worked with the NSW Government and Schools Infrastructure NSW to build the new centre. The sports centre has 4 indoor sports courts, a multipurpose room for meetings and other activities, amenities and a café.

· All water harvesting sites are working to capacity resulting in less potable water being utilised on sporting facilities.

· Adopted the Sports fields Booking Policy and Sports fields Closure Policy in December 2025.

· The new boardwalk and interpretive signage at the Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden have been completed allowing visitors to connect to the area’s Aboriginal heritage. The signage showcases the area’s rich Indigenous heritage and native flora and fauna. Visitors can scan a QR code to watch a video featuring Aboriginal Elder Brendan Kerin, who shares stories about the plants and animals along the track.

Ø Community events

· There was record visitation for the 2025 Eco Festival with 15,787 visitors. Partners included National Parks, the Australian Plant Society, Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden, Swain Gardens, Net Zero Champions, Revolve Recycling, Crop Swap Australia, and the Ku-ring-gai Arts Centre.

· St Ives Showground had 110,884 vehicles accessing the site during the reporting period. Major events held at the Showground included NAIDOC Week, Peloton Sport Cyclo-cross Race, 180 Cadence Ultra Marathon, National Tree Day, St Ives Orchid Fair, North Shore Sporting Car Club monthly meets, Sydney Backyard Ultra, Sustainability Bike Recycle Event, Northern Suburbs Agricultural Society Agricultural Show, The Sydney Trail half Marathon night edition, Tuff Nutterz Inflatable Obstacle Course, Sydney Trail Series and the Chemical Cleanup.

· Council awarded $93,900 to 18 recipients through the Ku-ring-gai Events & Festivals Sponsorships program. Sixteen events were held and attracted 56,338 participants/visitors.

Ø Volunteering

· Around 85 volunteers attended the Environmental Volunteers’ Thank You Lunch, enjoying good food and shared stories while celebrating a successful year of stewardship. The Mayor thanked volunteers for their invaluable contributions, with several formally recognised for long service and outstanding commitment, and the event offered an opportunity to reconnect and welcome new members.

Ø Community programs

· The Mandarin Dementia Awareness seminar attracted around 80 people, the Carer’s Pamper Day engaged about 30 participants including people living with dementia who shared morning tea and lunch while carers enjoyed wellness treatments, and 20 people attended a day out at Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden featuring morning tea, a sculpture walk, a ranger’s talk, an art therapy session, and lunch together.

· Council has commenced partnerships with a range of youth-based services, including Streetwork, Sydney Drug Education & Counselling Centre and Headspace (Chatswood) to engage and support young people. Council has assisted in delivering new needs-based youth programs such as healthy relationships, mental health and drug and alcohol impacts.

· Development of the draft Youth Action Plan alongside the Youth Advisory Committee, to reflect the needs of young people in the Ku-ring-gai area and to help inform Council on how young people can best be supported.

· Over 100 aged care staff and 30 aged care managers attended training and information sessions. Two aged care career expos promoted careers in aged care, connected Support at Home services with job seekers, and educated providers in attracting workers. Thirteen providers attended roundtable discussions on workforce planning for in home support, sharing their experiences in managing operational and staffing challenges.

· Two additional seniors’ strength and balance classes were introduced in July and September 2025 to accommodate the need for reasonably priced, easily accessible exercise opportunities for older people. These classes have very quickly reached full capacity. In response to community feedback, pickleball courts were set up and 109 people turned up for the Pickleball Open Day in November. A new pickleball class will begin in 2026.

· Senior’s outings attract an average of 30 people with feedback for both outings and seminars showing a satisfaction rate of over 90%. Comments include “Improves conversation, stimulation and wellbeing”, “Makes life more enjoyable” “Gets me out of the house and mixing with others” “A carefree day and I always learn something”.

· The Active Ku-ring-gai Program has expanded to 32 programs with over 300 attendees, including the introduction of three new golf classes.

· The library’s popularity continues to grow with more diverse collections, with overall eResource circulation up 32% year-on-year, BorrowBox circulation up 42%, library app launches up 35%, and active Library app users increasing by 20%.

· The Ku-ring-gai Art Centre’s Open Day attracted 350 visitors.

Ø Business support

· A Night-Time Economy Action Plan was developed and approved. An internal working group has been established to implement initiatives including night-time events, branding, regulatory guidance, a task force, and other supports for night-time businesses.

· In July 2025, the annual Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Local Business Awards were held. Sponsored by Council, the initiative drew 89 finalists from across the Ku-ring-gai area who won 15 of the 28 award categories, including the highly coveted Local Business of the Year award.

Ø Service improvements

· Council's average development assessment processing time was 86 days for the first half of 2025/2026, which is significantly less than the Minister's Statement of Expectations requirement of a maximum of 105 days.

· Adoption of Council's Compliance Policy and Local Approvals Policy in September 2025.

Traffic and transport

· Adopted the new Local Transport Forum (LTF) model in December 2025. The LTF is a technical body established under delegation of Transport for NSW. It considers and advises Council on technical traffic related control and matters. It includes representatives of Council, NSW Police, Transport for NSW and the local Members of State Parliament.

· Delivery of several successful road safety initiatives to the community including a Supervisors of Learner Driver Workshop, Child Car Seat Safety Check Day, Pedestrian Safety Presentation for seniors, Road Safety Story Time for preschoolers and continued programs for speed display, pedestrian safety, motorcycle safety, drink driving, bicycle safety, safety around schools and supported and promoted Transport for NSW statewide campaigns in road rules awareness, double demerits and safe towing.

· Council received an offer of funding for the new roundabout at the intersection of Trafalgar Avenue and Clanville Road as part of the 2025/26 Australian Government Black Spot Program.

Ø Leadership and governance

· Exhibition and adoption of Council’s revised Delivery Program and Operational Plan and Resourcing Strategy (including the Asset Management Strategy) reflecting Council's proposal to seek IPART’s approval for an increase in rates commencing in 2026/27.

· Council's endorsement of the Annual Report for 2024/25.

· Adopted a revised Code of Meeting Practice reflecting changes required under the Office of Local Government's new Model Code. This included actions intended to improve transparency, community confidence and maintain the dignity of the Chamber.

Ø Workforce

· Launch of first phase of the Employee Self Service platform. This platform allows staff to manage HR and payroll tasks more simply and streamlines administrative functions.

Challenges

Challenges during the six-month reporting period included the following:

· Continued planning and policy responses required to State government housing policy changes has impacted progress on some 2025-2026 Operational Plan actions and projects.

· Changes to State government planning policy and guidelines delayed the commencement of planning studies for employment lands and review of Council’s adopted Local Strategic Planning Statement.

· An internal review of project cost constraints, feasibility and potential alternative delivery methods for the proposed Cultural and Environmental Education Centre (CEEC) has delayed project timelines.

· Responding to the increasing number and complexity of residential development applications has placed significant demands on staff resources.

· The original master plans for community hub sites at Lindfield, Turramurra and Gordon were developed under very different economic and legislative conditions. Rezoning of land under Council’s alternative Transport Oriented Development program, the low and medium-rise SEPP and the volume of State Significant Development Applications (SSDAs) has created a vastly new planning environment. Master plans no longer reflect the best use of the land or increased infrastructure and community demands.

· Some planned capital projects required rephasing to 2026-27 following a review of resource capacity for the remainder of 2025-2026. Council endorsed those changes at its November OMC meeting as part of its consideration of the September Quarterly Budget Review.

· Resource capacity issues continue to delay the essential supporting studies for the s7.11 Contributions Plan review.

· The 2026/2027 Australian Government Black Spots Program opened for applications. A check of the eligibility of projects in the 10yr Traffic and Transport Plan was undertaken, as well as current traffic signal design projects underway in Lindfield, and none met the eligibility requirements.

· Youth spaces continue to provide a safe and engaging environment that balances recreation with targeted education and support. While staffing fluctuations due to team members leaving for study have presented an operational challenge, proactive measures have been implemented to maintain service continuity and recruit new staff, ensuring ongoing quality and responsive youth programs.

· Further investigation of ember attack mapping needs and incorporation into future Bush Fire Prone Land mapping.

· Delays in finalisation of the Norman Griffiths flood mitigation design continued to delay finalisation for the Lane Cove Northern Catchments Flood Study.

· A decline in website traffic compared to the previous period attributed to a rise in the use of AI in Google/Gemini instead of visiting Council's site to obtain information

integrated planning and reporting

Outcome 5 - Leadership and service excellence

Community Strategic Plan Strategy

Delivery Program

Term Achievement

Operational Plan

Action

L1: Provide strong and ethical civic leadership to ensure good governance and build and maintain trust and confidence within the

community.

L1.1: The Community Strategic Plan drives delivery of community priorities through effective strategic planning, prioritisation, advocacy,

partnerships and reporting to the community on performance.

L1.1.2: Update reports and supporting system to deliver clear and comprehensive

reporting to councillors and the community on performance and delivery.

Governance Matters

The Local Government Act requires a progress report to be presented to Council on the principal activities detailed in the Delivery Program and Operational Plan at least every six (6) months. This requirement is met through the biannual reports presented to Council for the six month periods July to December and January to June each year.

Risk Implication statement

Consistent with the Local Government Act, 1993, the preparation, reporting and consideration by Council on the progress of the Delivery Program and Operational Plan is undertaken every six (6) months through biannual reports. Brief comments are also provided in Attachment A1 on risk assessment associated with delayed actions during the reporting period.

Financial Considerations

There are no direct financial considerations associated with the adoption of the recommendations contained within this report. A report on the December quarterly budget review for 2025-2026 was presented to Council’s Ordinary Meeting of 17 February 2026 (Item GB.5).

Social Considerations

Recommendations in the report do not affect social considerations that may be required as part of the delivery of specific actions.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS

Recommendations in the report do not affect environmental considerations that may be required as part of the delivery of specific actions.

COMMUNITY CONSULTATION

Although no specific community consultation was undertaken for the preparation of this report, community engagement and consultation played a significant role in the delivery of services, programs, projects and actions as detailed in the bi-annual progress report.

INTERNAL CONSULTATION

All Departments have provided status updates and comments on the progress of term achievements and tasks as provided at Attachment A1.

Summary

This report provides progress results for one-year actions and four-year term achievements contained in the Delivery Program 2025-2029 and Operational Plan 2025-2026 for the December Biannual review period.

89% of the 56 term achievements were satisfactorily progressed at the end of December 2025.

90% of the 228 one-year Operational Plan actions were satisfactorily reported as progressing to schedule for the same period with 6% (14) tasks behind schedule and 4% (9) actions significantly behind schedule.

Reasons for delays, proposed remedial measures and comments on risk are included in the report and Attachment A1 for actions reported as not progressing to schedule. Recommended remedial measures include revised action timelines, proposed changes to action wording and deferral of actions to 2026/27.

Recommendation:

That:

A. the report on the six-monthly progress review of the Delivery Program 2025-2029 and Operational Plan 2025-2026 for the period July to December 2025 be received and noted.

B. Council amends specific 2025-2026 actions as recommended in the report.

Helen Lowndes

Integrated Planning Coordinator

Christopher M Jones

Manager Governance and Corporate Strategy

Cindy Venables

Corporate Planner

Attachments:

A1 ⇩

DRAFT Delivery Program 2025-2029 and Operational Plan 2025-2026 - December 2025 biannual report for OMC - Attachment

2026/062462

Ordinary Meeting of Council - 17 March 2026	GB.8 / 1

Item GB.8	S15185

Community Access to Automated External Defibrillators (AED) Across Council Facilities "LACHY'S HEARTSTART PROJECT"

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

purpose of report:	This report provides Council with information about providing community access to Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) across Council facilities.

background:	On 18 November 2025, Council resolved that a report be provided on the provision of community access to external AEDs across Council facilities.

comments:	A desktop assessment of 272 locations was carried out for potential installations of community accessible AEDs. A draft four-stage delivery program over two financial years commencing 2026/27 (second half of 2026 calendar year) has been developed, subject to funding availability. An estimated total capital cost of $2,029,650 and operational funding of $322,920 per annum is required to deliver this project in its entirety. The whole of life cost over 10 years is $5,258,850.

recommendation: (Refer to the full Recommendation at the end of this report)	That Council: A. Implement Stage 1 (Sportsfields - 60 AEDs) and Stage 2 (Community buildings - 10 AEDs) in the 2026/27 financial year. B. Include an increase to relevant fees in the draft 2026/27 Fees & Charges for exhibition, to offset the annualised whole of life cost of installing, maintaining and monitoring the AEDs, phased in over two financial years commencing 2026/27. C. Consider funding Stage 3 (Playground and Off leash Parks) and Stage 4 (Reserves) during preparation of the 2027/28 DP&OP.

Purpose of Report

This report provides Council with information about providing community access to Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) across Council facilities.

Background

Following a Notice of Motion by Councillors Devlin and Kay at the Ordinary Meeting of Council held on 18 November 2025, Council resolved as follows:

A. By March 2026, a report be brought back to Council detailing the whole of life costs for the supply, installation, service and monitoring of providing external AEDs at Council owned facilities across the following stages:

a. Stage 1: all Council sporting fields (implementation during calendar year 2026,); and,

b. Stage 2: all Council community buildings, recreation areas, and public parks (implementation before the end of calendar year 2027); noting that,

c. (The above stages are guidelines only and may differ from the report).

B. The report also contains information on the delivery timeframes, grant funding or sponsorship opportunities, and consideration of relevant liabilities imposed on Council; and,

C. The preferred delivery model prioritises external, publicly accessible units with 24-hour access and automatic registration with the NSW Ambulance AED Locator database.

This report provides Council with information on delivering a program of publicly accessible AEDs across Council facilities, including whole of life costs, delivery considerations and the associated risks and liabilities.

Comments

Currently, Council provides twenty-two (22) AED units across its operational buildings and vehicles, libraries, golf courses, art centre and community halls, with two (2) of these AEDs being externally accessible. These AEDs are registered with the Global GoodSAM database which informs the NSW Ambulance AED locator database. Any newly installed AEDs will be registered with this database and included on Council’s website.

One new additional unit has recently become available at Warrimoo Oval through St Ives Football Club. This unit is owned by the club. Some local sporting clubs provide access to their AEDs when undertaking club activities.

Whole of Life Costs

The whole of life costs for an AED considers the supply, installation, servicing and monitoring costs over the predicted lifespan of the unit. The lifespan of a device is approximately 10 years. The lifespan of the electrode pad and battery life is estimated to be 5 years and will require one full replacement during whole of life.

Whole of life cost estimates, including installation, project management, operation and maintenance, are shown below. The following currently available rates (excl. GST) have been used to derive the estimated costs.

Capital cost:

· supply of an AED device $2,500 (mid-range)

· supply of alarmed cabinets:

o wall mounted $3,500

o freestanding totem $4,350

o solar powered tower $10,000

· project management allow 10% of capital cost

· Total $6,600 or $7,500 or $13,750 depending on cabinet type

Annual Operational Cost:

· replacement of electrode pads and battery $60 ($600, i.e. one replacement at (year 5)

· annual servicing $350

· monitoring $1,200

· reactive maintenance $60

· staff cost for operating and maintenance

– allow 5% $85

· Total $1,755

Table 1 – Estimate of Whole of life Cost Estimate (exclusive of GST)

Type of AED

Initial Capital Cost per device

Annual Operational Cost per device

Whole of Life Cost per device (10 years)

Wall mounted (includes electrical connection)

$6,600

$1,755

$24,150

Freestanding totem (includes electrical connection and footing)

$7,500

$1,755

$25,050

Solar powered tower (includes footing)

$13,750

$1,755

$31,300

Wall mounted AEDs will be used at facilities which have amenity buildings or the like allowing the device to be mounted to a wall. The freestanding totem will be used at facilities which don’t have amenity buildings to allow a cabinet being fixed to the wall or if the device need to be installed in a centralised location. Solar powered towers will be used in areas where nearby electrical power is not readily available.

All cabinets will be alarmed with controlled ventilation and backup battery. A keypad access code and GPS tracking are optional features to be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Delivery

A desktop assessment of 272 facilities has been undertaken to identify potential locations for the installation of AEDs. These facilities included sportsfields, tennis and netball courts, community buildings, playgrounds, dog off leash parks and reserves. The assessment included identifying priorities based on usage, current AED provisions, access to power and nearby facilities. For larger venues with multiple facilities or multiple venues in proximity, the number of AEDs has been rationalised. These would be reviewed during detailed project scoping.

Should Council proceed with the installation, a four-stage draft delivery program over two financial years has been developed commencing FY27 (second half of 2026 calendar year), subject to funding availability. The draft delivery program is provided as Attachment A1 – Draft Delivery Program. This delivery program has all facilities assessed during the desktop assessment including priority of delivery, power supply and cost per facility.

In line with the NoM, Stage 1 caters for all sportsfields, including tennis and netball courts.

Due to the extent of Stage 2 proposed in the NoM, this stage has been expanded into an additional two stages i.e. Stages 3 and 4, based on priorities. Stages 2 and 3 include community buildings, dog off leash and playgrounds. Some community buildings have existing AEDs inside the facilities so financial savings may be made by relocating these devices to external locations. Stage 4 includes a range of reserves with varying levels of usage. The installation of AEDs at facilities identified in Stages 3-4 may be better considered on a case-by-case basis based on priorities in the Draft Delivery Program, whole of life asset costs, facility usage and available funding.

The estimated cost of each stage is broken down in Attachment A2 – Draft Delivery Program Costings and is summarised in Table 2.

Table 2: Estimated costs of a delivery program per stage (exclusive of GST)

Stage	Facility	Delivery Timeline (subject to funding)	Initial Capital Cost	Annual Operational Cost	Whole of Life Cost (10 years)
1	Sports fields, including tennis and netball courts (60 devices)	FY27	$447,950	$105,300	$1,500,950
2	Community Buildings (10 devices)	FY27	$66,900	$17,550	$242,400
3	Playgrounds and Dog Off Leash areas (71 devices)	FY28	$937,850	$124,605	$2,183,900
4	Reserves (43 devices)	FY28	$576,950	$75,465	$1,331,600
Totals	184 AED devices		$2,029,650	$322,920	$5,258,850

An estimated total capital cost of $2,029,650 (excl. GST) and operational funding of $322,920 (excl. GST) per annum is required to deliver this project in its entirety. These costs would be subject to market forces and potential efficiencies at the time of procurement. The operational funding of $322,920 per annum is needed on an ongoing basis for the life of the service provided. Grants are unavailable to fund operational costs.

The delivery timeframe is subject to the availability of funding. At this point in time, completion of delivery of Stage 1 within the 2026 calendar year, as per the Council Resolution, is unlikely given the lead times required which includes the tender procurement process, supply and logistics for a project of this scale. It is considered that each stage could be delivered within a twelve-month timeframe of the funding becoming available.

Liability

Council has received advice on the liabilities associated with providing publicly accessible AEDs and it is difficult to measure Council’s exact risks and liabilities with complete certainty.

Council is under no legal obligation to provide AEDs in public spaces. However, if AEDs are provided, Council must ensure they are functional. Offering a malfunctioning AED, same as other asset / equipment, to the public could be viewed as negligent hence expose Council to risks such as public liability exposure and reputation loss. For this reason, to help mitigate liability, any AED provided by Council must include servicing and monitoring to ensure device readiness. This would be best provided by a third-party provider as this a specialised service.

integrated planning and reporting

Outcome 3: Infrastructure and assets support community needs

Community Strategic Plan Strategy

Delivery Program

Term Achievement

Operational Plan

Action

A3: Provide, upgrade and maintain community buildings and facilities to meet the needs of current and future user groups and a growing population.

A3.2: Usage of existing community buildings and facilities is optimised.

A3.2.5: Align capital works programs with adopted open space and recreational assets management plans to ensure Council’s recreation services meet customer needs.

Governance Matters

There are no significant Governance matters associated with this report.

Risk Implication statement

There are several risks relevant to this report that need to be considered, as shown in the table below:

Risk description	Key Controls	Residual Risk Rating	Risk Appetite
Liability and duty of care exposure specifically due to vandalism and device reliability.	· Respond to reactive requests including reports of vandalism and device removal within two business days. · Provide vandal proof cabinets and/or device tracking for Council facilities with known rates of vandalism. · Provide signage that clearly states emergency services should be contacted, and no immediate response is provided by Council when the device is used. · Develop a disclaimer to further inform the users of Council’s limited liability to develop reasonable expectations. · Capture any use, tampering, or malfunction of an AED through existing incident reporting and escalation mechanisms to support follow-up and continuous improvement.	15	Threshold
Failure of device due to maintenance and oversight.	· Engage a third-party contractor to service and monitor the devices on an annual program. · Establish a proactive inspection schedule and oversight of maintenance schedule. Responsibilities and record keeping requirements will be clearly defined.	15	Threshold
General public unfamiliar on use of AEDs resulting in death.	· ‘The Good Samaritan Act’ removes liability however Council could implement regular educational campaign through the Council website and social media. · Provide signage with instructions on how to use the device and contact details for emergency services.	15	Threshold
Failure of long-term engagement of third-party contractor (e.g. financial collapse of contractor).	· Engage a provider with established history of providing this service.	13	Threshold
Failure of AED device not provided by Council but publicly accessible within a Council facility.	· Develop a disclaimer to further inform the users of Council’s limited liability to develop reasonable expectations. · Create an internal register of AEDs provided by community groups and stored within a Council facility e.g. cabinet within clubhouse, so publicly accessible AEDs can be monitored by Council staff.	15	Threshold

Financial Considerations

The full project cost has an estimated total capital cost of $2,029,650 (excl. GST) with an asset life of 10 years. In addition to the capital cost, the ongoing operational cost is $322,920 (excl. GST) per annum.

The provision of publicly available AEDs of this scale would be in general a new service for Council as well as new assets. This project is currently unfunded. It is proposed that the costs for installation, operation and maintenance of AEDs at sports fields and community buildings (Stages 1 and 2) are funded through an increase to hire fees commencing in the 2026/27 financial year.

The delivery of Stages 1 and 2 is estimated to require a capital cost of $514,850 and ongoing operational cost of $122,850 per annum (excl. GST). Over a 10-year asset life, the annualised cost of both the capital and operational cost is $174,300 ($150,100 for sport fields and $24,200 for community buildings).

It is proposed that the annualised cost be recovered through user fees from 2026/27, where appropriate. Council currently generates approximately $2.1 million per annum from sportsfields and $1.3 million from community hall hire, meeting rooms and community leases.

To recover the additional income of $174,300 per annum, sports related income would need to increase by approximately 7%, while community buildings and halls hire income would increase by approximately 1.8%. This would result in an increase of around 7% to existing sports fees to recover the sports field portion of the cost and a modest increase to casual community buildings hire fees to recover the community building portion.

To moderate the impact on users, it is recommended that the cost recovery fee increase be phased in over two financial years, commencing 2026/27.

It is recommended to fund the initial capital cost for Stages 1 and 2 upfront from the infrastructure reserve, with the reserve replenished over time through the additional revenue raised from the fees. These increases would be applied in addition to any CPI adjustments.

The proposed fee increases would be placed on public exhibition, and consultation with sports clubs and the broader community undertaken as part of the DP&OP exhibition process.

External Funding Sources

There are grant funding opportunities for AEDs which may be available for eligible community groups or clubs. Examples of these include the NSW State Government’s Local Sport Defibrillator Grant Program, the Federal Stronger Communities Programme and a recent St John Ambulance NSW program. Should any community group or club be successful in securing grant funding for an AED, then this would be owned and managed by them and would not form part of Council’s AED network.

Grant opportunities for Council to rollout a project of this scale is not considered to be likely. It is noted that in 2025/26 the NSW State Government’s Local Sport Defibrillator Grant Program provided total funding of only $500,000 across NSW with a maximum grant per applicant of $3,000. Only applicants within the lowest five Socio-Economic Indexes for Areas (SEIFA) as ranked by the Australian Bureau of Statistics, or those who can demonstrate financial hardship, were eligible to apply. Ku-ring-gai Council has one of the highest SEIFA scores in NSW. The Federal Stronger Communities program provides grants of between $2,500 and $20,000.

Social Considerations

The installation of external AEDs at Council facilities may provide members of the public better opportunity to act immediately to assist someone experiencing a cardiac arrest until emergency services have arrived.

Environmental Considerations

If the roll out of all stages occurs, some facilities do not have access to a power supply to allow for monitoring. In these cases, a solar powered enclosure will be used. Insignificant environmental impacts are expected.

Community Consultation

Consultation has not yet been undertaken with the community however Council has previously received requests for the installation of publicly accessible AEDs at sportsfields. Consultation will be required to determine appropriate installation locations within larger venues. In addition, the proposed fee increases would be placed on public exhibition, and consultation with sports clubs and the broader community undertaken as part of the DP&OP exhibition process.

Internal Consultation

Consultation has been undertaken with relevant business areas.

Summary

Providing community access to AEDs across Council facilities would assist in building a strong first response network across the local government area.

A service of this scale would be new to Council which requires significant capital investment and ongoing recurrent operational funding. The cost of providing AEDs at sports related sites and community buildings could be offset by an increase to hire fees.

Providing more AEDs also introduces liability exposure to Council which could be managed within an acceptable risk threshold with well-considered controls.

Recommendation:

That Council:

A. Implement Stage 1 (Sportsfields - 60 AEDs) and Stage 2 (Community buildings - 10 AEDs) in the 2026/27 financial year.

C. Consider funding Stage 3 (Playground and Off leash Parks) and Stage 4 (Reserves) during preparation of the 2027/28 DP&OP.

Meghan Andrew

Coordinator Open Space, Recreational and Building Assets

Mursaleen Shah

Manager Assets & Technical Services

Angela Apostol

Director Corporate

Peter Lichaa

Director Operations

Attachments:	A1 ⇩	Attachment 1 - Draft Delivery Program - Community Access to External Automated Defibrillators Across Council Facilities		2026/039725
	A2 ⇩	Attachment 2 - Summary of Draft Delivery Program Costings - Community Access to External Automated Defibrillators Across Council Facilities		2026/058284

Ordinary Meeting of Council - 17 March 2026	GB.10 / 1

Item GB.10	S12203

Ku-ring-gai Heritage Strategy

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

purpose of report:	To provide Council with an assessment of the implementation of the Action Plan included in the Ku-ring-gai Heritage Strategy August 2021.

background:	At the Council meeting of 16 December 2025, Council resolved in part for staff to provide a report assessing the implementation of the Action Plan in the Ku-ring-gai Heritage Strategy 2021. This report was to include the identification of short-term actions that remain current and critical and provide a timeline for their completion by December 2026.

comments:	This report assesses the implementation of the Action Plan in the Heritage Strategy 2021.

recommendation: (Refer to the full Recommendation at the end of this report)	That the report be received and noted.

Purpose of Report

To provide Council with an assessment of the implementation of the Action Plan included in the Ku-ring-gai Heritage Strategy August 2021.

Background

At the ordinary meeting of Council (OCM) held on 16 December 2025, Council considered a notice of motion on the Ku-ring-gai Heritage Strategy and resolved:

A. Council staff provide a report in February 2026 directly to Council assessing the implementation of the action plan in the Heritage Strategy 2021. This should include the identification of short-term actions that remain current and critical with a timeline for completion by December 2026.

B. The Heritage Strategy be updated following engagement with heritage owners, culturally diverse communities, Aboriginal groups, young people, relevant community groups, as well as the wider community, including

a. A Heritage Forum with heritage owners

b. Feedback on the Heritage Strategy from Community Advisory Committees

C. A Heritage newsletter be developed and tested in 2026 to share information and build dialogue

D. An updated Heritage Strategy be brought back to Council in December 2026 including an action plan with timelines, for inclusion in the Delivery Program and Operational Plan and related reporting.

E. In recognition of the threat to heritage resulting from recent state government housing policy change, Council must aim to strengthen the conservation of built heritage and this should be reflected in the Heritage Strategy update.

This report responds to Part A of the resolution by providing an assessment of the implementation of the Action Plan included in the Ku-ring-gai Heritage Strategy August 2021 (refer Attachment A1).

Comments

Ku-ring-gai Council is required under NSW and local legislation to identify, protect, and conserve Ku-ring-gai’s environmental heritage. Ku-ring-gai’s Local Strategic Planning Statement (LSPS), adopted in March 2020 required the preparation of Council’s first Heritage Strategy which was to outline Council’s objectives and actions for heritage management.

A draft strategy was prepared and circulated to the Heritage Reference Committee prior to public exhibition. During exhibition a total of 15 submissions were received, and the strategy was subsequently adopted at the Ordinary Council Meeting held on 27 April 2021.

The strategy identified key challenges and opportunities facing heritage conservation within the Ku-ring-gai Local Government Area (LGA). It established clear priorities and included a detailed Action Plan comprising 21 actions, each with assigned delivery timeframes.

· Short term: 1-2 years (14 action items)

· Medium term: 2-5 years (1 action item)

· Ongoing: (6 action items)

Since 2021 the Action Plan has transitioned from a document of ‘new projects’ to a framework where many tasks are now more appropriately classified as ongoing activities.

This report provides an update on the implementation of the 21 tasks listed in the Action Plan. It identifies completed, ongoing tasks and ‘in progress’ tasks scheduled for completion in 2026/2027. Additionally, it highlights two tasks that have been deferred pending funding and staff allocation. It was noted in the Action Plan that actions may be deferred with delivery of actions being contingent upon the availability of funding.

Overview of the status of the Heritage Strategy Action Items (21)

Status	Number
Projects Completed/Superseded	4
Items originally identified as ongoing tasks that remain routine heritage work	6
Projects originally provided with a short-term delivery window which have transitioned into being ongoing/routine heritage work	6
Projects in progress (1.5 are scheduled for completion mid-2026)	3
Deferred Projects	2
Total	21

Tasks Completed/Superseded

#	Action Items	Comments
1.2	Provide input into the local character study being undertaken by the Urban Design Team	Completed: Heritage input was provided into the Local Character Study. This study has been successfully integrated into the Ku-ring-gai Development Control Plan.
2.4	Seek permanent exemption from SEPP Seniors for Heritage Conservation Areas.	Superseded: The SEPP Seniors legislation has been absorbed into the SEPP (Housing) 2021. A moratorium on seniors housing in Heritage Conservation Areas (HCA) expired on 31 December 2023. The seniors housing provisions now apply across the Greater Sydney Region within prescribed zones (residential and some mixed-use zones). The moratorium was not renewed due to the State prioritising the supply of diverse housing and ageing in place.
3.3	Investigate a local heritage consultant’s directory.	Superseded: Previously staff would refer to the Heritage Consultants Directory maintained by the NSW Government Office of Environment and Heritage; however this is no longer available due to concerns regarding impartiality and probity.
4.2	Explore options and partnerships for the redevelopment and reopening of Tulkiyan as a house museum.	Completed: In February 2026 the Historic Houses Association of Australia entered into an agreement with Council for the operation of Tulkiyan.

Tasks originally identified as short-term, which have transitioned to routine work

#	Action Items	Action Delivery Window	Current Status	Rationale
1.1	Update inventory sheets	Short-term	Ongoing	This is known as the HER-Story project. To date over 260 updates to inventories have been completed and uploaded to the State Heritage Inventory with approximately 780 remaining. The estimated cost per update is approximately $2,000 - 10,000, with a typical timeframe of 1–2 weeks. Allocating a dedicated staff member to this task would assist with timely and consistent progress on the updates.
2.1	Update heritage controls in DCP	Short-term	Ongoing	This is routine, ongoing work undertaken in response to changes in State or local government legislation and policy (for example, recent state-wide legislation enabling dual occupancies in all R2 low density zones has required heritage input into updated DCP controls).
3.1	Investigate the possibility of providing a heritage advisory service	Short-term	Ongoing	Council provides comprehensive heritage information and guidance through its multilingual online resources. This is regularly updated to respond to changing planning legislation, for example the States TOD and LMR housing policies. Residents who own, or are located near, heritage properties can also access pre-DA and pre-planning proposal meetings, where specialist heritage advice is available.
3.5	Provide online case-studies that explain heritage conservation practice	Short-term	Ongoing	Updates to Ku-ring-gai’s heritage webpages are undertaken regularly to ensure alignment with legislative changes. A new webpage was recently published on heritage and density, featuring case studies relevant to increased housing densification.
4.4	Work cooperatively with Sydney Living Museums, local heritage stakeholder groups and operators to establish a strategic and coordinated approach to development of year-round heritage and cultural experiences in Ku-ring-gai.	Short-term	Ongoing	Every April/May the Ku-ring-gai Heritage Festival is undertaken in conjunction with the Australian wide National Trust Heritage Festival. In 2025 the Ku-ring-gai festival included photo exhibitions, open homes, historical talks, a guided walk exploring Ku-ring-gai’s Aboriginal heritage, fashion exhibitions an art exhibition and guided walks of heritage landmarks in the suburbs of Roseville, Killara, Lindfield and Gordon. Opportunities to expand on popular festival offerings at other points during the year will be investigated and addressed in the Heritage Strategy update to be reported to Council in December 2026.
4.5	Create an interactive website on the history and development of Ku-ring-gai	Short-term	Ongoing	Current digital offerings include photo galleries and local history collections. Enhancing historic web information about the development of Ku-ring-gai is an ongoing task undertaken when staffing/resource constraints permit.

Projects in progress

#	Action Items	Comment	Funding/ Resourcing	Status Update
1.5	Engage a consultant to prepare a Modern Heritage Study and to prepare a smaller scale Modern Heritage Study if State Government funding is not realised.	Stage 1 (95% complete): A study of post-war architecture in the suburbs of Turramurra, Wahroonga, and Warrawee is nearing finalisation. Stage 2 of the study addressing the suburbs of Roseville Chase, Killara, St Ives and West Pymble will complete the LGA-wide gap analysis of mid-century assets.	Stage 1: $104,000 (Funded) Stage 2: $100,000 (Estimate, Unfunded)	In progress: Stage 1 is nearing completion. Stage 2 to be initiated based on available staffing and funding resources. A progress report and final findings of the Stage 1 report will be included in the December 2026 Heritage Strategy update.
3.6	Explore options for engaging with CALD groups and providing information on public consultations in common local languages other than English.	In accordance with the OMC Resolution (December 2025), Council is developing a web-based heritage newsletter and notification flyer. These publications will be available in multiple languages. This initiative aims to broaden community engagement and enhance inclusivity in heritage conservation.	Existing Operational Budget $2,000 -$5,000 per 1,000 residences (Estimate)	In progress: Publication of the pilot newsletter and mail out flyer is scheduled for March-May 2026. Project progress will be reported to Council in the Heritage Strategy update scheduled for December 2026.
4.3	Develop a Ku-ring-gai Heritage App to allow for self-guided walks and exploration of Ku-ring-gai.	This project aims to support exploration of heritage within the LGA through the development of an App. In line with the 2021–2026 medium-term timeframe, the project is currently under review to assess delivery feasibility and confirm funding requirements.	$40-80,000 (Estimate, Unfunded)	In progress: A feasibility assessment, including scope, costs and anticipated outcomes, is currently underway. A recommendation regarding project delivery will be presented as part of the December 2026 Heritage Strategy update.

Deferred Projects

Action Items

Comment

Funding/ Resourcing

Status Update

1.3

Engage a consultant to prepare an Indigenous Heritage Study for the Ku-ring-gai LGA.

The 2021 Heritage Strategy notes that the Ku-ring-gai Municipality Heritage Study: Aboriginal Sites was completed in 1988. However, it also acknowledges the likelihood that additional sites remain unidentified and recommends that the study be updated and expanded.

The 1988 study identified areas of archaeological potential. Aligning any expansion or update of the study with a future archaeological study would create efficiencies in the preparation of project briefs, stakeholder consultation, and reporting.

$100,000+

(Estimate, Unfunded)

Deferred: pending funding and resource allocation.

To be reconsidered alongside the Archaeological study to achieve efficiencies with brief preparation, consultation and reporting.

1.4

Engage a consultant to prepare an Archaeological study.

Combining this work with the Indigenous Heritage Study would deliver strategic benefits, including improved coordination and resource efficiency.

$100,000+

(Estimate, Unfunded)

Deferred: pending funding and resource allocation.

To be reconsidered alongside the Indigenous Heritage Study.

Since adoption of the 2021 Strategy, the planning landscape in NSW has changed significantly. This report demonstrates that Council’s heritage team (1.2 full-time equivalent staff) has successfully operationalised the majority of the 2021 actions within their core business activities, while also delivering a range of additional priority projects in response to State planning reforms and Council resolutions, including:

· Ku-ring-gai Heritage Conservation Area Review;

· comparative Study: Conservation areas of Ku-ring-gai and Sydney’s suburbs;

· draft Ku-ring-gai Preliminary Heritage Assessment; and

· preparation of a heritage database, including original listing dates for all heritage items.

With regard to the uncompleted and non-routine tasks identified in this report there is a clear pathway for the three ‘in progress’ actions, with the Modern Study Part 1 and the Heritage Newsletter scheduled for delivery mid-2026.

The following two deferred actions will be reported on in the December 2026 Heritage Strategy update and further information provided regarding the necessary funding, staffing and potential timelines for completion. They are not proposed as funded items in the 2026/2027 Draft Delivery Program.

Item	Action
1.3	Engage a consultant to prepare an Indigenous Heritage Study for the Ku-ring-gai LGA.
1.4	Engage a consultant to prepare an Archaeological study.

integrated planning and reporting

Theme 3: Places, Spaces and Infrastructure

Community Strategic Plan Long Term Objective

Delivery Program

Term Achievement

Operational Plan

Tasks

Protect Ku-ring-gai’s heritage and character through appropriate planning controls

Strategies, plans and processes are in place to effectively protect, preserve and manage Ku-ring-gai’s heritage assets.

Promote local heritage in consultation with key stakeholders.

Implement, monitor and review Ku-ring-gai’s heritage planning controls and Heritage Strategy.

Note: The operational plan tasks are subject to funding allocation.

Governance Matters

Ku-ring-gai Council is obligated by NSW and local legislation to identify, protect and conserve Ku-ring-gai’s environmental heritage.

Risk Implication statement

There are no material risks that arise from the recommendations contained in this report. Any issues that may occur, will be managed within Council’s current policies, procedures, resources and budget.

Financial Considerations

The costs associated with reviewing, updating, and reporting on the Ku-ring-gai Heritage Strategy Action Plan are funded through the Urban and Heritage Planning budget, which is managed by Council’s Strategy and Environment Department.

The Action Plan references funding for implementation; however, this was limited to the 2019–2022 budget period. The Action Plan states:

“Delivery of actions is contingent upon the availability of funds in the Strategy and Environment Department, Urban and Heritage Planning budget for 2019–2022.”

Since the adoption of the Strategy in 2021, none of the actions have been explicitly allocated funding in annual budgets, including the current financial year.

Additionally, it should be noted that the Department’s 2025–2026 budget does not include provisions for Parts B and C of the Council resolution dated 19 December 2025.

Social Considerations

The implementation of the Heritage Strategy Action Plan contributes to the ongoing conservation of Ku-ring-gai’s community-valued historic landscape and garden suburbs.

Environmental Considerations

The implementation of the Heritage Strategy contributes to the ongoing conservation of Ku-ring-gai’s community-valued historic landscape and garden suburbs.

Community Consultation

Community consultation is not required for this report.

Internal Consultation

Where relevant internal consultation with other Departments of Council has taken place in the preparation of this report.

Summary

The Heritage Strategy Action Plan outlines the measures Council will undertake to achieve its heritage objectives, including the identification, conservation, and management of Ku-ring-gai’s heritage, subject to available budget and resources.

Since its initial release in late 2021, the Action Plan has evolved from a program of discrete “new projects” into a broader framework, with many actions now more appropriately classified as ongoing activities. This approach has been reflected in reporting to the Heritage Advisory Committee.

This shift demonstrates that the Heritage team has successfully embedded a number of actions into its core business operations.

The team has established a clear pathway to either finalise or substantially advance, the three ‘in progress’ tasks in 2026/2027 and will provide further information on all actions including the two deferred tasks in the Heritage Strategy update report scheduled for Council’s December 2026 meeting.

Recommendation:

That the report be received and noted.

Philippa Hayes

Strategic Planner Heritage

Craige Wyse

Team Leader Urban Planning

Antony Fabbro

Manager Urban & Heritage Planning

Andrew Watson

Director Strategy & Environment

Attachments:

A1 ⇩

Ku-ring-gai Heritage Strategy August 2021

2021/125006

Ordinary Meeting of Council - 17 March 2026	GB.11 / 1

Item GB.11	S14408

Planning Proposal for 1364-1396 Pacific Hwy and 1, 1A, 3 and 3A Kissing Point Rd Turramurra (Turramurra Plaza) - Post Exhibition

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

purpose of report:	For Council to consider submissions in response to the public exhibition of the Planning Proposal and site specific DCP for 1364-1396 Pacific Hwy and 1, 1A, 3 and 3A Kissing Point Rd, Turramurra (Turramurra Plaza).

background:	On 13 August 2024 Council resolved to forward the Planning Proposal to the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure for a Gateway Determination, contingent on certain amendments to the documentation. The Gateway Determination was issued on 9 May 2025 enabling the exhibition of the Planning Proposal. In accordance with the Gateway Determination, the Planning Proposal was placed on public exhibition from 4 July 2025 to 1 August 2025.

comments:	In response to the public exhibition, a total of 41 submissions were received from the community. All community submissions and State Agency responses were forwarded to the proponent for their response. All submissions, including the proponent’s response have been assessed for Council’s consideration. The assessment has resulted in no proposed amendments to the Planning Proposal.

recommendation:	That Council: 1. That Council adopts the Planning Proposal for 1364-1396 Pacific Highway and 1, 1a, 3 and 3a Kissing Point Road, Turramurra. 2. That Council adopt the amended site specific DCP 3. That Council endorse the reclassification of its land at 1A, 3 and 3A Kissing Point Rd Turramurra from Community land to Operational land. 4. That the Planning Proposal be submitted to the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure for finalisation.

Purpose of Report

Background

The Planning Proposal

The exhibited planning proposal for 1364-1396 Pacific Highway and 1, 1a, 3 and 3a Kissing Point Road, Turramurra included the following amendments to the Ku-ring-gai Local Environmental Plan 2015:

· Increasing height of buildings from 17.5m (5 storeys) to a spilt height of 28.5m and 34.5m (7-9 storeys);

· increasing the floor space ratio from 2:1 to 3:1;

· include a minimum non-residential (commercial/retail/community) floor space ratio of 0.85:1;

· remove the maximum commercial FSR standard of 1 (Area 4 in clause 4.4 (2E)); and

· reclassify the Council owned car park site from community to operational land.

The exhibited Planning Proposal is included as Attachment A1.

Figure 1: Lots included within the site

Ku-ring-gai Local Environmental Plan 2015 (KLEP 2015) – MAPPING AMENDMENT
EXISTING	PROPOSED (EXHIBITED)
Height of Buildings Map
P- 17.5m	Part T1 -28.5m Part U1 – 34.5m
Floor Space Ratio (FSR) Map
T1 – 2.0:1	V – 3.0:1

Figure 2: Proposed KLEP Mapping amendments

The Planning Proposal was accompanied by a letter of offer to enter into a planning agreement to deliver the following:

1. new Stonex Street – A new public street connecting Kissing Point Road and Duff Street will be delivered;

2. Footpath upgrades along Kissing Point Road and Pacific Highway;

3. Stonex Lane – Is to be retained and upgraded as an open-air pedestrian lane with active frontages and supporting street furniture;

4. A new park;

5. A community centre of up to 400m2 (as a cold shell fit out flexible for multiple future uses); and

6. 5% of total floor area delivered as affordable housing.

The draft Planning Agreement will subject to a separate report to Council. This is to:

1. ensure no delay to the post exhibition planning proposal and site specific DCP so that the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure’s specified timeframes in the Gateway Determination; and

2. allow for additional time to finalise the draft Planning Agreement and draft Option Deed before reporting to Council for public exhibition.

The development is not able to be implemented to its fullest potential without Council land being included, therefore the risks to Council are minimal by not progressing the Planning Proposal simultaneously with a draft Planning Agreement. Note also that there are time limits on Council dealing with Planning Proposals.

Process

On 13 August 2024, Council considered the Planning Proposal (combined with the Letter of Offer) and the advice of the KLPP (GB14) and resolved:

A. Subject to B and C below, the Planning Proposal be submitted to the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure for a Gateway Determination:

B. Prior to submitting the Planning Proposal for a Gateway Determination the Planning Proposal is amended by the proponent to address the following:

a. prepares an amended reference scheme and a feasibility assessment for a new accessible Community Space within the development of up to 400sqm to be provided in perpetuity and dedicated to Council. The assessment and plans should align with Ku-ring-gai Council's adopted policies and plans for new Community Facilities; and

b. prepare an affordable housing viability report to clarify the housing affordability rates (including floor space and number of units to be provided in perpetuity) and method of management to confirm and support the offer made by the proponent within the Planning Proposal. The assessment should align with the Greater Sydney Region Plan and North District Plan requirements for new residential floor space to deliver 5-10% affordable housing subject to viability.

C. Submission for Council consideration of a revised public benefit letter of offer clearly outlining those matters to be dealt with in the context of a prospective land transaction as opposed to those to be addressed in the context of works, dedications, and other benefits.

D. Should a Gateway Determination be issued for public exhibition of the Planning Proposal, the site-specific amendments to the Ku-ring-gai DCP Part 14 Urban Precinct and Sites 14B Turramurra Local Centre as outlined in this report be placed on public exhibition concurrent with the Planning Proposal.

The Planning Proposal was submitted to the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure for a Gateway Determination in accordance with section 3.34 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 subject to the recommendations outlined in the report. The Gateway Determination was issued on 9 May 2025 by DPHI (Attachment A2).

The Planning Proposal and Site-specific Development Control Plan were on public exhibition from 4 July 2025 to 1 August 2025.

A public hearing in respect of the planning proposal to reclassify community land as operational land in accordance with the requirements of section 3.34(2)(e) of the Local Government Act 1993 was chaired by an independent Chairperson and was held on Thursday, 28 August 2025.

A Gateway Determination Alteration (Attachment A3) was issued on 2 February 2026 which extends the time for finalisation of the Planning Proposal to 24 July 2026.

Comments

Public Exhibition

The Planning Proposal and site-specific Development Control Plan were placed on public exhibition from 4 July 2025 to 1 August 2025 in accordance with the conditions of the Gateway Determination and Council’s Community Participation Plan.

Submissions to the exhibition were received from the Community and State Agencies with a late submission from Transport for NSW as part of the draft Planning Agreement negotiations to ensure public benefit. The draft Planning Agreement will subject to a separate report to Council.

The submissions have been assessed to determine the Planning Proposal continues to have merit as exhibited.

A copy of the exhibited Planning Proposal is at Attachment A1.

Some minor changes have been proposed to the site-specific Development Control Plan following public exhibition. These changes:

· seek to strengthen the DCP to ensure community concerns are addressed at Development Application Stage; and

· correct minor errors and improve formatting.

A copy of the exhibited site-specific Development Control Plan (with proposed edits following public exhibition) can be seen at Attachment A4.

Community Submissions

41 community submissions were received.

The community submissions varied in their response to the proposal. Community submission themes, and Officer Comment are detailed below and in Community Submission Summary Table at Attachment A5.

It is noted that some community submissions covered multiple themes and therefore some submissions are responded to more than once.

Theme 1: Support for redevelopment of Turramurra Local Centre

19 of 41 community submissions were made to be in support for redevelopment of Turramurra Local Centre.

Officer comment

Redevelopment of Turramurra Local Centre is supported through higher order planning policies.

Theme 2: Integration into overall plan for Turramurra / Ku-ring-gai

1 of 41 community submissions were made regarding the integration of the development into the overall plan for Turramurra / Ku-ring-gai.

Officer comment

Integration into overall plan for Turramurra / Ku-ring-gai will be supported through the Turramurra Public Domain Plan, the Development Control Plan, the Contributions Plan and the site-specific Development Control Plan.

Theme 3: Support for Planning Proposal

14 of 41 community submissions supported the Planning Proposal.

Officer comment

Support for the development is generally consistent with outcomes for the town centre outlined in the Turramurra Public Domain Plan, the Development Control Plan, the Contributions Plan and the site-specific Development Control Plan.

Theme 4: Pedestrian Accessibility

13 of 41 community submissions were made regarding pedestrian accessibility. With most matters raised related to the steepness of the site and being able to cross the Pacific Highway.

Officer comment

The site-specific Development Control Plan requires direct and safe movement via an at grade pedestrian only street, stairs and a lift to avoid the slope of the street between Pacific Highway and the new park (Ku ring gai Council 2025, Ku ring gai Development Control Plan – Part 14X). These new connections will improve the Pedestrian Accessibility in the southern part of Turramurra and connect it to an upgraded intersection at Pacific Highway and Kissing Point Road which the proponent proposes to dedicate land towards for TfNSW to complete in the future.

Theme 5: Carparking

9 of 41 community submissions were made regarding carparking. With most matters raised related to adequacy of parking, potential loss of community parking, spillover to local streets and requests for commuter or multistorey parking near the station.

Officer comment

Parking provision will be determined at the Development Application stage and will be determined by the Development Control Plan to ensure adequacy of parking within the development. Additionally, any loss of Council parking and off street parking will be absorbed by capacity within the proposed development and on new Stonnex Street to be delivered as part of the Planning Agreement associated with the Planning Proposal.

Theme 6: Traffic

25 of 41 community submissions were made regarding traffic. Most matters raised related to concern about congestion, intersection performance, construction traffic routes, and pedestrian/cyclist safety, with suggestions for further upgrades on Kissing Point Road and the Pacific Highway.

Officer comment

Required TfNSW upgrades (specifically a new intersection at Kissing Point Road and the Pacific Highway) and the proponent’s new street (new Stonnex Street) will be sufficient to mitigate traffic concerns. The developer will be constructing new Stonnex Street and dedicating land to support a new intersection at Kissing Point Road and the Pacific Highway as part of the Planning Agreement associated with this Planning Proposal. Detailed traffic modelling and design will be resolved at the development application stage.

Theme 7: Cycling

2 of 41 community submissions sought connectivity for cycling, including links along Kissing Point Road and to Browns Creek/Great North Walk.

Officer comment

The developer will be constructing new Stonnex Street and dedicating land to support a new intersection at Kissing Point Road and the Pacific Highway as part of the Planning Agreement associated with this Planning Proposal. The land dedicated by the developer for the new intersection includes the provision for a Council Cycleway along Kissing Point Road. Additionally, new Stonnex Street will also include cycling infrastructure in the form of dedicated space for cyclists.

Cycling connections and end‑of‑trip details will be finalised at the Development Application stage consistent with the Public Domain Plan and Development Control Plan.

Theme 8: Biodiversity, Trees and Landscape

4 of 41 community submissions focused on removal of trees, potential impacts on Blue Gum High Forest and the need for sensitive replacement planting and reserve‑edge treatments.

Officer comment

Ecological impacts and mitigation will be addressed through detailed assessment at the Development Application stage, with landscaping to align with Council’s Development Control Plan and Public Domain Plan. Additionally, as part of the Planning Agreement, consideration has been given to the delivery of work-in-kind items in the contributions plan including an upgrade of a stormwater basin in Granny Springs Reserve. Wording in the proposed Planning Agreement ensures that revegetation and creek line rehabilitation will form part of the delivery of the stormwater basin.

Theme 9: Granny Springs Reserve

2 of 41 community submissions raised safety/privacy issues and asked that any new track or access minimise impacts on Blue Gum High Forest.

Officer comment

Any reserve‑edge treatments and potential track alignments will be determined at Development Application stage to ensure minimal ecological impact. Additionally, any new tracks will be determined by Council if and when Council upgrade Granny Springs Reserve. The upgrade of Granny Springs Reserve has no set date but is outlined in the Contributions Plan, the Development Control Plan and Public Domain Plan.

Theme 10: Open Space/Public Park

3 of 41 community submissions regarded the open space and new park associated with the development. Some welcomed the new public park; others questioned its usability given traffic/noise and the need to cross a busy street.

Officer comment

The park within the Planning Proposal will form part of the planned public‑domain network and will be designed for accessibility, landscape quality and safe connections to the centre and Granny Springs Reserve with a new intersection at Kissing Point Road and the Pacific Highway and a new street, Stonnex Street. The upgrade of Granny Springs Reserve has no set date but is outlined in the Contributions Plan, the Development Control Plan and Public Domain Plan.

Theme 11: Height and Floor Space Ratio

11 of 41 community submissions were raised about bulk, height, visual impact and transition to surrounding lower‑scale areas, with a few submitters’ supportive given proximity to the station.

Officer comment

Proposed heights align with the Gateway Determination and are supported by independent design review; the site‑specific Development Control Plan manages transitions, massing and activation. Appropriate outcomes will be supported by the site-specific Development Control Plan at the Development Application stage.

Theme 12: Overshadowing

5 of 41 community submissions noted potential winter overshadowing of nearby properties, particularly along Kissing Point Road.

Officer comment

Solar access and overshadowing impacts are minimal with no discernible impacts to properties as part of the Planning Proposal as noted in the independent urban design review by Studio Zanardo. Detailed assessments and impacts against properties will be assessed at the Development Application stage, referencing the Apartment Design Guideline and Development Control Plan.

Theme 13: Loss of Privacy

4 of 41 community submissions were related to overlooking from upper levels into adjacent properties and private open space.

Officer comment

Privacy will be managed via setbacks, orientation and screening measures at the Development Application stage consistent with the Development Control Plan and Apartment Design Guideline.

Theme 14: Quality Construction and Design

6 of 41 community submissions emphasised high‑quality architecture and materials and compliance with the Apartment Design Guide to ensure amenity and fit with local character.

Officer comment

Detailed design quality, residential amenity and acoustic performance will be tested at the Development Application stage consistent with the Development Control Plan and Apartment Design Guideline.

Theme 15: Amenity

5 of 41 community submissions related to noise, air quality and traffic impacts on neighbours, particularly along the new public street.

Officer comment

Construction and operational amenity will be managed through conditions at the Development Application stage. Additionally, detailed acoustic, traffic design and operational plans will be required at Development Application stage. It is also noted that relocating open‑air parking into structured parking will also help reduce existing impacts.

Theme 16: Reclassification

5 of 41 community submissions opposed reclassification of Council land, citing potential loss of access / parking and uncertainty about community benefit.

Officer comment

Reclassification enables delivery of key public benefits (new street, park and land for intersection upgrades) associated with the Planning Agreement. If the land is not reclassified the vision for the town centre consistent with the Public Domain Strategy and Development Control Plan cannot be achieved.

Theme 17: Population Increase

1 of 41 submissions supported recognition of population growth and the need to plan for it.

Officer comment

Strategic assessment as part of the Planning Proposal package supports modest growth within accessible local‑centre locations such as this site.

Theme 18: Service Relocation

5 of 41 community submissions noted the need to coordinate service relocations with TfNSW and utilities.

Officer comment

Service relocations will be coordinated at the Development Application stage.

Theme 19: Housing

3 of 41 community submissions acknowledged increased housing supply benefits and queried affordable housing delivery.

Officer comment

Housing uplift is strategically supported in the Planning Proposal. 5% affordable housing will form part of the Planning Agreement associated with this Planning Proposal.

Theme 20: Access to Public Transport

1 of 41 community submissions questioned the practicality of access to rail and bus services given the Pacific Highway barrier.

Officer comment

The site is within a short walk of the station and bus services, with safe crossings and planned upgrades to further support access with a new intersection at Kissing Point Road and Pacific Highway.

Theme 21: Retail and Commercial Provision

1 of 41 community submissions queried need for another supermarket and noted lack of interim medical services.

Officer comment

Retail analysis indicates under‑provision of modern supermarket floorspace locally; the planning proposal strikes the right balance and should strengthen the centre without altering its hierarchy.

Theme 22: Bushfire

2 of 41 community submissions were raised about evacuation capacity and mapping changes to bushfire‑prone land.

Officer comment

Any bushfire requirements will be addressed at the Development Application stage that to ensure that requirements under Planning for Bushfire Protection 2019 and local controls can be satisfied.

The land in Granny Springs Reserve adjacent to the site was removed from Council’s Bushfire Prone Lands Map in 2017. The mapping changes were prepared under the Rural Fires Act 1997 and in accordance with NSW Rural Fire Service ‘Guide for Bush Fire Prone Land Mapping’ (2015).

Theme 23: Heritage

1 of 41 community submissions noted potential visual impacts on the Hillview Heritage Conservation Area from proposed height.

Officer comment

Heritage impacts will be mitigated through setbacks, materials and landscaping refined at the Development Application stage consistent with the Development Control Plan.

Theme 24: Water Flow and Drainage

1 of 41 community submissions sought assurance that stormwater would not impact Granny Springs Reserve.

Officer comment

Stormwater will be directed to the reticulated system with water‑sensitive design, protecting adjacent natural areas; details will be assessed at Development Application stage and as part of the Panning Agreement (specifically, works-in-kind to upgrade the stormwater basin as identified in the Contributions Plan) associated with this Planning Proposal.

Theme 25: Contamination

1 of 41 community submissions cited risks from past land uses and potential ecological impacts if not remediated.

Officer comment

The exhibited Preliminary Site Investigation (Contamination Report) sets the standard New South Wales pathway of detailed site investigation and, if needed, remediation at Development Application Stage.

Theme 26: Community Space

1 of 41 community submissions questioned the size/need of the proposed 400 m² community space and sought clarity on community parking protection.

Officer comment

The Planning Agreement Letter of Offer includes provision for an approximately 400sqm community space to be provided on the ground floor with direct access to Stonex Lane. This is intended to compliment (not replace) any other community facilities Council have planned for the area.

State Agency Submissions

3 State Agency submissions were received during the exhibition period with one late submission from TfNSW.

The State Agency submissions and Officer Comment are detailed below and in State Agency Submission Summary Table at Attachment A6.

State Agency Submission: Ausgrid (electricity infrastructure)

· Requires consideration be given to compatibility of proposal with existing Ausgrid infrastructure including electrocution, fire, electric and magnetic fields, noise, visual amenity, other matters that may impact Ausgrid or proposal

· Consent authority has to consider suitability of the proposal including its compatibility with surrounding land uses and existing environment

· Better to include mitigation measures during design phase such as buffer, screening, building design, orientation, and construction methods.

· Provided generic conditions of consent that Council could include in approval of Development Application

Officer comment

These are matters for the Development Application stage and have been noted.

State Agency Submission: Sydney Water (water and sewerage infrastructure)

· Preliminary assessment indicates that water and wastewater servicing should be available for future demands

· Amplification, adjustments, deviations and/or extensions to the 150mm and 225m wastewater main traversing the site may be required

· Detailed requirements to be provided at Section 73 stage

· Require proponent to provide anticipated ultimate and annual growth data for this development on Growth Data Form.

· If proposal will generate trade wastewater, permit required.

· Council advised to forward Sydney Water Planning Proposal Information Sheet (for proponent) to proponent.

Officer comment

Comments regarding water servicing, wastewater servicing and potential adjustments are noted.

Council officers have provided the information sheet and the Growth Data form to the proponent to be sent back to Sydney Water.

These matters are a matter for the Development Application stage.

State Agency Submission: Jemena (gas infrastructure)

No objection.

Officer comment

Noted.

Late State Agency Submission: TfNSW (transport infrastructure) (Attachment A7)

Key conditions include ensuring queues do not spill from right‑turn bays, refining the proposed intersection upgrades, providing adequate building setbacks to accommodate a left‑turn bay and active transport lane, designing Stonex Street as a low‑speed or shared zone, ensuring high‑quality bike parking at street level and incorporating robust noise mitigation in future development controls.

Officer comment

As land has been dedicated by the proponent for these upgrades further refinement is a matter for the Development Application stage.

Proponent response to submissions

In accordance with the Local Environmental Plan Making Guideline (August 2023) all community and State Agency submissions made to the exhibition of the Planning Proposal were provided to the proponent to give “the proponent the opportunity to address or redress issues raised in submissions, including amendments to the proposal”.

The proponent response to submissions can be viewed at Attachment A8.

Outcome of above assessment of community and state agency submissions

Planning Proposal

The submissions have been assessed to determine the Planning Proposal continues to have merit as exhibited. No Amendments are proposed to the exhibited Planning Proposal.

A copy of the exhibited Planning Proposal is included at Attachment A1.

Site Specific Development Control Plan

Some minor changes have been proposed to the Site-specific Development Control Plan following public exhibition. These changes strengthen the DCP to ensure community concerns are addressed at Development Application Stage and correct minor errors and improve formatting:

1. Urban Precinct Section:

a. Planned Future Character subheading improved to set neighbourhood context.

b. Three new objectives added to: improve objectives to protect neighbourhood context; protect Blue Gum High Forest; and ensure bulk and scale and pedestrian amenity are protected.

c. Edits to existing controls to: correct errors related to street and location names; ensure active frontages on each street and public area; include reference to the community centre; and ensure streets and parks would be delivered in accordance with the Turramurra Public Domain Plan.

d. New controls added to: ensure streets and parks are to the correct size; ensure development manages visual impacts; protect Blue Gum High Forrest and the Fox Velly water catchment area; and ensure consistency with Turramurra Public Domain Plan.

2. Pedestrian and Vehicular Access Section

a. Two new objectives added to: ensure the road layout of the proposal is designed to improve local traffic flows and ensure the new development provides adequate parking.

b. Edits to existing controls to: correct location names.

c. New controls added to: ensure active street frontages on all sides of the development; ensure development responds to the slope of the land; ensure access and loading docks are kept to within the basement of the development; outline deliverables of each transport item the developer has proposed to deliver; and ensure access points for pedestrians and vehicles are in predetermined locations consistent with the traffic report.

3. Built Form and Setbacks

a. Three new objectives added: To ensure buildings engage with pedestrians at street level; to facilitate high quality built outcomes; and to ensure facades are well articulated to address public spaces.

b. Edits to existing controls to: update location names.

c. New controls added to: encourage outdoor dining; ensure landscaping is consistent with species from the neighbouring Blue Gum High Forrest in Granny Springs reserve; and ensure that an ecologist, arborist and bushfire expert are consulted at development application stage.

4. Public Domain

a. Three new objectives added to: ensure significant street trees of species from Blue Gum High Forrest; outline that the street connecting Duff Street to Kissing Point Road be fully upgraded; and ensure land dedication for TfNSW and Council to improve the intersection at Pacific Highway and Kissing Point Road.

A copy of the Site-specific Development Control Plan (with proposed edits following public exhibition) can be seen at Attachment A4.

Reclassification of Council Land

The Planning Proposal seeks to reclassify the Council-owned part of the site from Community to Operational land. This involves the following lots:

· 1A Kissing Point Road (Lot 2 DP 500077, Lot 2 DP 502388 and Lot 2 DP 500761);

· 3 Kissing Point Road (Lot B DP 435272); and

· 3A Kissing Point Road (Lot A DP 391538).

The Council-owned land proposed to be reclassified is shown green in Figure 3 below.

Figure 3 Current ownership pattern - Council owned land (green) and private owned land (blue)

This land being classified as Community means that Council is not able to develop, sell, exchange or dispose of the land under the provisions of the Local Government Act 1993. The Operational classification of the land will provide greater flexibility for the Site, including the possible future divestment of Council land, which will facilitate the redevelopment of the site.

The draft Planning Agreement seeks to facilitate the following key outcomes:

1. Financial compensation as determined by the Acquisition and Divestment of Land Policy for land transactions noted above;

2. land dedication for:

a. new Park (approx. 708m2);

b. new Stonex Street (approx. 1,434m2);

c. footpath, cycleway and intersection upgrades along Kissing Point Road and Pacific Highway; and

d. a community centre of up to 400m2 dedicated to Council.

3. Works carried out by the proponent to deliver:

a. new Stonex Street – A new public street connecting Kissing Point Road and Duff Street will be delivered;

b. footpath upgrades along Kissing Point Road and Pacific Highway;

c. Stonex Lane – Is to be retained and upgraded as an open-air pedestrian lane with active frontages and supporting street furniture;

d. a new park; and

e. a community centre of up to 400m2 (as a cold shell fit-out flexible for multiple future uses).

Public Hearing

Councils must hold a public hearing when reclassifying land from Community to Operational (EP&A Act s.57 and LG Act s.29).

Notification of the public hearing was given on Council’s website on 4 August 2025 and 774 letters were mailed to surrounding properties. The notification letter was emailed to everyone who made a submission to the exhibition of the planning proposal

The public hearing was held on 28 August 2025 and chaired by independent chairperson, Catherin Van Laeren.

Role of the Public Hearing Chairperson and Report

Council has previously sought legal advice to clarify the role of the public hearing chair. The advice stated that:

· the function of the independent Chair is to take submissions and prepare a report of the public hearing; and

· the role of Council is to receive the furnished report of the public hearing and to make its own decision on whether or not to accept the recommendations of the report.

The Chairperson’s role is advisory only and Council is not bound to accept the Chair’s recommendations.

In considering the Chair’s recommendation, Council is to assess the evidential basis of the Chair’s recommendations. Council must also consider its responsibility to the wider Ku-ring-gai community, its competing priorities and long-term funding and delivery of facilities.

The Chairperson’s Report (Attachment A9):

· Describes the procedures for holding a public hearing and confirms all procedural requirements, including notification, have been met;

· notes the responses made to Council’s exhibition of the Planning Proposal;

· reiterates the written and verbal submissions made to her as the public hearing chair; and

· draws conclusions and makes an advisory recommendation to Council.

Submissions to the Public Hearing

There were 3 written and 5 oral submissions made to the Public Hearing including one from Council and one on behalf of the proponent of the Planning Proposal. The Chairperson also took questions from 3 members of the public.

The Council submission re-iterated the issues presented in the public exhibition of the Planning Proposal:

· The sites were progressively acquired by Ku-ring-gai Council from 1962 through to 1974, for municipal purposes/carparking with funds provided from General Revenue and is not identified as ‘public reserve’ under the Local Government Act.

· at OMC 16 March 2021 Council resolved that a Planning Proposal should be prepared by Council for the reclassification of the site from Community land to Operational land as there were no long terms plans which required the retention of the land in public ownership.

· the reclassification of the sites to ‘Operational’ will enable the consolidated renewal and redevelopment of the precinct as envisioned by the LSPS and DCP.

· there is no current arrangement for the sale of the land, however the Planning Proposal is reliant to the incorporation of these sites in order to achieve:

o a consolidated development site consistent with the strategic planning set out in the LSPS and DCP for Turramurra; and

o to be able to provide significant public benefits and community infrastructure;

· any transaction for the divestment of Council land will be undertaken in a clear and transparent manner, supported by Council’s valuation advice and in accordance with Council’s Acquisition and Divestment of Land Policy and further reporting to Council;

· Council’s Long Term Financial Plan outlines that proceeds from asset sales will be used for the Property Development Reserve and s7.11 Development Contributions plan projects which require a co-contribution funding gap.

An outline of the issues raised at the public hearing is as follows:

Issue: Support for the proposal

· The Turramurra Shopping Centre is degraded and needs revitalisation.

Issue: Value of Community Benefit

· Council needs to ensure that there is adequate compensation for giving up the land.

· No benefit in the proposed park, as a new park has been provided in Allen Avenue - does not adequately compensate for the loss of short-term car parking.

· No need for the proposed community centre as there are other halls and churches in the area.

· Not enough car parking will be provided for the proposed units.

· Representative of proponent outlined the proposed community benefit as delivering a new community park which is 708 square meters; a new Stonex Street which is approximately 1,400 square meters; a new footpath widened along Kissing Point Road and along the highway; a community centre of up to 400 square meters; financial compensation to Council; 30 car spaces will be delivered back to Council

Issue: Traffic

· Increase in traffic caused by additional apartment development

· Timing of the traffic survey that supports the planning proposal, which was undertaken during the quiet time of COVID.

· Support for the public road between Duff Street and Kissing Point Road

Issue: Car Parking

· Need for additional commuter and non-restricted car parking in Turramurra.

· Car parking is used by apartments and people travelling on the train after business hours.

· There has been a reduction of unrestricted car parking in Duff Street and other areas in Turramurra.

Chairpersons’ Consideration of Submissions and Recommendations

The Chairperson has considered the submissions and draws the following conclusions in support of the reclassification of the land to Operational:

· Supports the intention to create the road, and the Council is encouraged to ensure that the road is dedicated as a public road to ensure public access. Other concerns regarding traffic circulation, road design, and the traffic survey are referred to the Council for consideration in assessing the planning proposal.

· All car parking generated by the proposal will need to be provided on site in conjunction with the development in accordance with Council’s requirements. Therefore, it is recommended to the Council that it consider car parking demand (excluding commuter car parking) beyond that generated by the development in determining the appropriate number of spaces, if any, to be given to the Council for public car parking.

· Council should continue to investigate attractive solutions for alternatives to commuter parking in accordance with the adopted plans and strategies rather than use this site for commuter car parking.

· Any transaction for the divestment of Council land will be undertaken in a clear and transparent manner, supported by Council's valuation advice and in accordance with Council's Acquisition and Divestment of Land Policy and further reporting to Council. This approach is supported, and negotiation of a prospective Planning Agreement will promote fair compensation to the Council for the land.

· One of the objectives of the Council’s Public Domain Plan is to provide small parks and urban spaces where possible and the plan identifies the provision of a public space at the entry to Granny Springs reserve. The proposed park will serve this purpose and be part of the overall open space network for Turramurra, aligning with the adopted Public Domain Plan for Turramurra.

· The Ku-ring-gai Community Facilities Strategy – Library and Community Centres, (December 4, 2018), recommends a new District Community Hub for Turramurra, with the closure of smaller spaces, for inclusion in the hub. If the proposed community space on the subject site is viewed as an interim measure while the staged delivery of the hub is further investigated, the Council may consider leasing the space rather than owning it, which could revert to a commercial space when no longer required by the Council. This could allow the Council to divert the value of this benefit to another use, such as embellishment of the public domain or towards the delivery of the hub or consolidated community space at a future stage.

· The reclassification of the land demonstrates both strategic and site-specific merit. Its general consistency with the state and local strategic plans, including the Council’s Local Strategic Planning Statement and the Public Domain Plan. The incorporation of the Council car park into the proposal, which can be achieved through the reclassification of the land, will promote the redevelopment and revitalisation of this part of the Turramurra Centre while providing public benefit specific to this site.

Public Hearing Report Recommendations

The Public Hearing Report (Attachment A9) makes the following 6 recommendations:

1. Make a copy of this report available for inspection by the public within 4 days of receiving the report in accordance with Section 47G(3) of the Local Government Act 1993.

2. Consider all issues raised in the verbal and written submissions in the assessment of the planning proposal for the reclassification.

3. The new Stonex Street is dedicated as a public road to protect ongoing public access.

4. Council considers the need for the community space in light of the Ku-ring-gai Community Facilities Strategy – Library and Community Centres, and consider the option to lease space rather than ownership, and if appropriate, explores this option as part of the planning agreement.

5. If the Council proceeds with the reclassification and divestment, notify the public of the public benefit to be gained from the proposal, including the proposed expenditure of funds realised from the divestment of the land.

6. Proceed to the next stage of the reclassification of 1A, 3 and 3A Kissing Point Road (Lot 2 DP 500077, Lot 2 DP 502388, Lot 2 DP 500761, Lot B DP 435272 and Lot A DP 391538) from community to operational land in accordance with the Local Government Act.

Response to recommendations

Recommendation

1. Make a copy of this report available for inspection by the public within 4 days of receiving the report in accordance with Section 47G(3) of the Local Government Act 1993.

Response

The final Public Hearing Report was received by Council on 19 August 2025 and published on Council’s website on 23 August 2025,

Recommendation

2. Consider all issues raised in the verbal and written submissions in the assessment of the planning proposal for the reclassification.

Response

Responses to the issues raised in submissions is included in this report.

Recommendation

3. The new Stonex Street is dedicated as a public road to protect ongoing public access.

Response

The dedication of the new Stonex Street is a matter for inclusion in the Planning Agreement between Council and the proponent. A Draft Planning Agreement will be the subject of a separate report to Council and if adopted by Council, will be place on exhibition for public comment.

Recommendation

Response

The inclusion of the proposed community facility within the reference scheme and the proponents revised letter of offer is a result of Council’s resolution at the OMC of 13 August 2024, when it resolved, in part, the following:

B. Prior to submitting the Planning Proposal for a Gateway Determination the Planning Proposal is amended by the proponent to address the following:

i. prepares an amended reference scheme and a feasibility assessment for a new accessible Community Space within the development of up to 400sqm to be provided in perpetuity and dedicated to Council. The assessment and plans should align with Ku-ring-gai Council's adopted policies and plans for new Community Facilities; and,

Council’s current Community Facilities Strategy was adopted in 2018. This strategy proposes new large, multipurpose community facilities located in the local centres of Turramurra, St Ives and Lindfield. It was intended that these facilities would be based on the community hub model, ideally co-locating branch library and community centre space and would serve the needs of their districts (that is, suburbs surrounding the facilities).

Council’s previously adopted Masterplan for the Turramurra Community Hub was prepared prior to significant changes in development feasibility, planning reforms and plans by Coles for their land within the Ray Street precinct opportunities or constraints. An updated masterplan is needed to address these issues with the timing of these plans is unknown at this stage.

The provision of a smaller community space as part of the redevelopment of this precinct provides the opportunity to deliver additional community facilities sooner. Should the new plans for the Turramurra hub proceed in the future and the space become surplus to requirements, then it could be sold with proceeds being directed to the development of the larger consolidated facility.

Recommendation

Response

Any transaction for the divestment of Council land will be undertaken in a clear and transparent manner, supported by Councils valuation advice and in accordance with Council’s Acquisition and Divestment of Land Policy and further reporting to Council.

Council’s Long Term Financial Plan outlines that proceeds from asset sales will be used for the Property Development Reserve and s7.11 Development Contributions plan projects which require a co-contribution funding gap.

Recommendation

Response

This report is recommending that Council endorse of the reclassification of the land from community land to operational land

integrated planning and reporting

Outcome 2: Sustainable urban growth and change

Strategy - Community Strategic Plan

Delivery Program

Term Achievement

Operational Plan

Actions

U1: Facilitate a diverse mix of housing options to accommodate the needs of a growing and changing population, including increased density in appropriate locations.

U1.1: Planning for housing is responsive and addresses the supply, choice, adaptability and affordability needs of the community and the changing population.

U1.1.1: Monitor and process proponent led and Council’s planning proposals for additional housing.

U1: Facilitate a diverse mix of housing options to accommodate the needs of a growing and changing population, including increased density in appropriate locations.

U1.2: Expanded community engagement in shaping the future of the Ku-ring-gai area provides enhanced opportunities to provide input on strategic planning policy decisions.

U1.2.1: Undertake engagement activities for identified strategic land use plans and policies consistent with Council’s Community Engagement Strategy.

Governance Matters

The process for the preparation and implementation of Planning Proposals is governed by the provisions contained in the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act) and the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2000.

The Local Government Act 1993 (LD Act) and the EPA Act set out requirements that Councils must follow when reclassifying Council-owned. Section 27(1) of the LG Act allows the reclassification of Community land to Operational land by amending the Local Environmental Plan under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 by way of a Planning Proposal.

Councils must hold a public hearing when reclassifying land from Community to Operational (EP&A Act s.57 and LG Act s.29).

Risk Implication statement

The primary risk associated with the recommendation/s contained in this report is related to Legal/Regulatory and Reputation.

To enable Council staff to remain at arm’s length from the process within their various areas of expertise, Council has engaged an external planning agreement coordinator to liaise across Council in the formulation of the draft Planning Agreement and its relationship to the Planning Proposal. Council has also contracted an external legal team to assist with the assessment and negotiation of the draft Planning Agreement.

Council risks damage to its reputation if it does not undertake strategic land use planning in an effective and timely manner. The Gateway Determination requires the LEP amendment associated with the planning proposal to be completed on or before 24 July 2026

Financial Considerations

The Planning Proposal was subject to the relevant application fee under Council’s 2024/2025 Fees and Charges Schedule. The cost of the review and assessment of the Planning Proposal is covered by this fee.

Social Considerations

The Planning Proposal is considered to have positive social benefits including the replacement of aging shops with additional housing, a community centre, a new park and improved transport (vehicular and cycling) and pedestrian connections. The proposal is consistent with the recent NSW Government housing reforms.

The draft Planning Agreement associated with the Planning Proposal seeks to facilitate the following key outcomes:

1. Financial compensation as determined by the Acquisition and Divestment of Land Policy for land transactions noted above;

2. land dedication for;

a. a new Park (approx. 708m2);

b. a new Stonex Street (approx. 1,434m2);

c. footpath, cycleway and intersection upgrades along Kissing Point Road and Pacific Highway; and

d. a Community Centre of up to 400m2 dedicated to Council.

3. Works carried out by the proponent to deliver:

a. new Stonex Street – A new public street connecting Kissing Point Road and Duff Street will be delivered;

b. footpath upgrades along Kissing Point Road and Pacific Highway;

c. Stonex Lane – Is to be retained and upgraded as an open-air pedestrian lane with active frontages and supporting street furniture;

d. a new park; and

e. a community centre of up to 400m2 (as a cold shell fit-out flexible for multiple future uses).

Environmental Considerations

The potential environmental impacts of the Planning Proposal have been considered in this assessment and it has been determined that the Planning Proposal should be supported as it will not result in any significant adverse environmental impacts and is suitable for the site. The impacts of any specific development that may occur on the site as a result of the proposal would be considered in detail at the development application stage.

Community Consultation

The Planning Proposal and site-specific DCP were on public exhibition from 4 July 2025 to 1 August 2025. A public hearing in respect of the Planning Proposal to reclassify Community land as Operational land in accordance with the requirements of section 3.34(2)(e) of the Local Government Act 1993 was chaired by an independent Chairperson and was held on Thursday, 28 August 2025.

All persons who made a submission were notified of this matter being report back to Council.

Internal Consultation

Council officers including the Strategy & Environment Department were consulted in the preparation of this Report and some elements were reported to the Council’s GMD.

Summary

The Planning Proposal and Site-specific Development Control Plan were on public exhibition from 4 July 2025 to 1 August 2025.

All submissions, including the proponent’s response have been assessed for Council’s consideration.

The submissions have been assessed to determine the Planning Proposal continues to have merit as exhibited. No amendments are proposed to the exhibited Planning Proposal.

The assessment has resulted in recommended minor changes to the site specific development control plan.

A public hearing in respect of the Planning Proposal to reclassify Community land as Operational land in accordance with the requirements of section 3.34(2)(e) of the Local Government Act 1993 was chaired by an independent Chairperson and was held on Thursday, 28 August 2025.

It is recommended that Council endorse the reclassification of its land at 1A, 3 and 3A Kissing Point Road Turramurra from Community land to Operational land

Recommendation:

A. That Council adopts the Planning Proposal for 1364-1396 Pacific Highway and 1, 1a, 3 and 3a Kissing Point Road, Turramurra.

B. That Council adopt the amended site specific DCP included as Attachment A4 to this report.

C. That Council endorse the reclassification of its land at 1A, 3 and 3A Kissing Point Road Turramurra from community land to Operational land.

D. That the Planning Proposal be submitted to the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) in accordance with Section 3.36 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, and DPHI be requested to make the plan.

E. That delegation be given to the Director Strategy and Environment to correct any minor errors or inconsistencies in the Planning Proposal prior to it being submitted to DPHI for finalisation.

F. Delegate responsibility to Director Strategy and Environment to correct any minor errors or inconsistencies in the Site-specific DCP prior to it coming into effect.

G. Those persons who made a submission be notified of Council’s decision.

H. That Council note that separate reports will be submitted to Council in relation to any prospective land transaction, and exhibition and subsequent adoption of a draft Planning Agreement.

Adrian Ellis

Planning Agreements Officer

Craige Wyse

Team Leader Urban Planning

Antony Fabbro

Manager Urban & Heritage Planning

Andrew Watson

Director Strategy & Environment

Attachments:	A1 ⇩	Public Exhibition Version - Planning Proposal 1364-1396 Pacific Hwy Turramurra PP - June 2025	2026/060933
	A2 ⇩	Gateway Determination	2025/145916
	A3 ⇩	Gateway Determination Alteration	2026/061161
	A4 ⇩	Draft Site-specfic DCP Turramurra Plaza as amended	2026/061536
	A5 ⇩	SUBMISSION SUMMARY TABLE - Consideration of Submissions - Turramurra Plaza	2026/059757
	A6 ⇩	SUBMISSION SUMMARY TABLE - State Agency Submissions - Turramurra Plaza	2025/253735
	A7 ⇩	TfNSW Response- Planning Proposal for Turramurra Plaza	2025/281982
	A8 ⇩	Proponent Submissions Response - Turramurra Plaza	2026/061033
	A9 ⇩	Public Hearing Report - Reclassification Council land at 1A, 3, 3A Kissing point Rd Turramurra	2026/052285
	A10	Public Exhibition - consolidated submissions	Confidential
	A11	Public Hearing - consolidated submissions	Confidential

Ordinary Meeting of Council - 17 March 2026	PT.1 / 1

Item PT.1	EM00049/2

Ordinary Meeting of Council - 17 March 2026	GB.1 / 1

Item GB.1	S04477

Ordinary Meeting of Council - 17 March 2026	GB.2 / 1

Item GB.2	S04141

Ordinary Meeting of Council - 17 March 2026	GB.3 / 1

Item GB.3	CY00022/18

Ordinary Meeting of Council - 17 March 2026	GB.4 / 1

Item GB.4	FY00623/8
	1 March 2026

Ordinary Meeting of Council - 17 March 2026	GB.6 / 1

Item GB.6	EM00049/2

Ordinary Meeting of Council - 17 March 2026	GB.7 / 1

Item GB.7	CY00430/14

Ordinary Meeting of Council - 17 March 2026	GB.9 / 1

Item GB.9	RFT13-2025/R

Attachments:	A1	RFT13-2025 – Road upgrade - Iona Avenue West Pymble - Tender Evaluation Plan	Confidential
	A2	RFT13-2025 – Road upgrade - Iona Avenue West Pymble - List of Submitters	Confidential
	A3	RFT13-2025 - Road Upgrade - Iona Avenue West Pymble - Tender Evaluation Report - signed	Confidential

Ordinary Meeting of Council - 17 March 2026	GB.12 / 1

Item GB.12	S10746