Council has established a precinct concept and ‘Have your say’ website for the Egans Lane project.

Shoalhaven Mayor Joanna Gash launched the concept with deputy mayor John Wells on Monday, describing it as exciting.

“This is a wonderful site with a number of options available,” Cr Gash said.

Cr Gash said the proposal could include a number of options such as a shopping centre, as well as additional car parking and a village centre.

“It could even include accommodation,” she said.

“We need to get it right and that’s why we are going out to public consultation.”

She would not rule out the development of a much called for Big W supermarket on the site.

“We do hope to attract a big store that will provide a shopping alternative to escape spending,” she said. “We are open to any suggestions from developers.

“Any development options can also include the library, arts centre and Betta Electrical sites. And that is why we are taking such care if we do a private/public proposal.

“We are open to anything and that’s why we are putting it out there to see what the community and developers may think.”

While council has no formal development proposals to present at this stage it is seeking community and business feedback on what should be done on the site.

“We hope to have a response to the survey by February and then we can go to the outer market in regards to what options are available from developers.

“This is a city building project, something innovative.

“This is just the beginning of this project to raise awareness of what will happen next.”

Cr Gash said there would be a series of workshops, community information sessions and surveys held to ensure landowners, local businesses and residents would be given the opportunity to ensure all stakeholders’ opinions are heard.

Council is finalising arrangements to engage an external consultant dedicated to helping undertake the community consultation.

The project will have its own website for the public to make comment which can be found from council’s homepage www.shoalhaven.nsw. gov.au.