Over 110 Burrill Lake residents rallied on Saturday next to the site of the proposed redevelopment of the Edgewater Motel to voice their opposition to the current plans.
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Despite the danger of gatherings posed by the COVID-19 virus, many locals felt compelled to show the developer and Shoalhaven City Council that support for the planned centre is far from universal with contentious issues not yet addressed.
Protesters made signs and held posters against overdevelopment and for the beauty of Burrill lake's natural foreshore.
Local resident, Greg Lewis was applauded by the crowd as he spoke about the lack of support from several Ward Three councillors at Shoalhaven Council.
"We have been repeatedly let down by some of our elected representatives in our ward, who are determined to push through inappropriate development at any cost," he said.
Despite detailed submissions to the DA and numerous meetings with Ward Councillors and council staff, locals feel disregarded in the assessment process.
A leaflet outlining issues with height, size, noise, access and impact on the foreshore environment was delivered to 750 Burrill Lake residences last week.
Community spokesperson, Lorraine Dixon explained the difficulty in getting information out to the local community.
"We have worked hard to alert locals about the many problems with the current plans for the Edgewater Motel," she said.
"People are still reeling after the bushfires and COVID-19 has shut down our ability to meet and explain the DA to those directly impacted."
Local residents have donated funds for an independent town planner's report as well as the information leaflet and posters.
"Locals are prepared to put their own money on the line to guarantee the best possible development at this sensitive lakeside location," Mrs Dixon added.
"The professional report notes that a thorough and transparent assessment cannot take place as there is inadequate and questionable information."
Residents want the developers to scale back the floor space and remove the rooftop entertainment area in keeping with the quiet village character of Burrill Lake.