The NSW government held a stakeholder engagement workshop in October last year at which it presented the community with urban and landscape designs and proposed changes to the project’s concept design.

Kiama MP Gareth Ward said the workshop was attended by 36 people and copies of the urban and landscape design presentation and feedback forms were provided to all attendees.

“The workshop allowed stakeholders with a particular interest in urban and landscape design to provide feedback across three key areas,” he said.

“Feedback was sought on urban design features at interchanges and bridges, options for plant species at the northern and southern interchanges and potential uses of residual land at North and George streets in Berry.

“We received 23 submissions with landscape design generating the most comment with strong support for a mix of native and exotic plants.

“The submissions were also supportive of the design for the bridge at Berry, particularly the change from three to two columns at each supporting pier improving the visual appearance of the bridge.

“Suggestions for the two blocks of residual land included an off leash dog area and an adventure playground.”

He said feedback about the land uses would be forwarded to Shoalhaven City Council for its consideration. 

“Feedback on the overall urban and landscape design will be considered as part of the project’s detailed design, which is expected to be on display in early April,” Mr Ward said.