The Long Reef course occupies a spectacular piece of land, however plans for a redevelopment of the 60-year-old clubhouse have been knocked back.
IT LOOKS like it’s back to the drawing board for Long Reef Golf Club’s redevelopment plans.
Rated one of the best public-access courses in the state, Long Reef’s clubhouse is now more than 60 years old.
So, the club proposed a $21m redevelopment only to have their application unanimously refused by the Northern Beaches local planning panel.
In an update to members, Long Reef general manager Ben Russell said: “This decision is disappointing, particularly given the application was rigorously assessed and recommended for approval by Northern Beaches Council’s professional planning staff as well as an independent planning assessor.
Among the reasons for the planning panel’s decision was the suggestion the proposed building would be too big for its coastal setting on community-owned land between Collaroy and Long Reef beaches.
The panel also suggested there was insufficient information for the application to be considered properly.
Russell disagreed:
“The club is of the view the majority of the technical matters raised by the panel, specifically those regarding site construction documentation, have already been addressed through comprehensive documentation, technical reports and submissions lodged during the assessment process,” he said.
“The club maintained a collaborative relationship with Council throughout the process and understood the proposal met all necessary criteria for approval.”
While the club indicated it would now re-assess its options, they expect to look at an alternative development although Russell indicated the master plan remained a long-term project for the club.
“Our current clubhouse is no longer fit for purpose for the needs of our members, guests, staff, hospitality operations and broader community,” he said.
“The objective remains to deliver a modern, sustainable and high-quality facility that supports the club’s future and strengthens Long Reef’s role as a significant community asset.”
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