Albury City Council is considering legal options regarding the damaged Kiewa Street car park, which has been closed to the public since February 20. In a private session held on November 17, councillors received a briefing from the legal firm Kell Moore on potential litigation related to the site. This session was closed to both the public and media due to the confidential nature of the legal advice, which falls under legal professional privilege.
Following the briefing, council chief executive Frank Zaknich stated that discussions are ongoing regarding the future of the car park. He noted that the council is exploring various options for the site and assessing its legal position concerning possible compensation. “At this stage, we’re still exploring options for the site and then the other pathway is what’s our legal position in terms of compensation,” Zaknich said. Further discussions about this matter are expected to take place in a confidential session during a council meeting on December 8 or potentially in February.
The double-storey car park was unexpectedly shut down after structural issues were identified, including significant concrete cracks. Mayor Kevin Mack, who was absent during the legal discussion, mentioned in August that a range of options, including demolition, are under consideration.
Future Developments and Community Input
In addition to the car park situation, the council is preparing to address the adoption of the new Thurgoona Wirlinga Precinct Structure Plan at its upcoming meeting on December 8. This decision follows a community forum scheduled for December 1, allowing local residents and stakeholders to voice their opinions on the draft plan. The initial proposal attracted 43 submissions, with seven fully supportive, another seven opposing it, and the remainder expressing mixed views.
Key concerns raised during the consultation include traffic congestion, biodiversity, and the need for additional shops, parks, and community hubs. There are also worries regarding how urban development might impact rural areas, particularly in Table Top. City development leader David Christy highlighted that multiple government agencies, including Homes NSW and the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, have expressed support for the plan. The Department of Defence, which conducts live ammunition testing at its nearby property, has also reaffirmed its commitment to remaining in the area.
Minor amendments to the precinct plan were discussed with councillors, including the relocation of a commercial precinct within the Hawkscote development to better align with the main entry road rather than stretching along the Riverina Highway. Additionally, the size of a major neighbourhood centre at Wirlinga has been reduced from 3.3 hectares to 2.7 hectares in response to community feedback.
As the council navigates these critical issues, the outcome of both the car park deliberations and the precinct plan will have significant implications for Albury’s development landscape.
