Agenda
Ordinary Council Meeting
20 March 2025, 7:00 PM
Council will commence consideration of
all business paper agenda items at 7.00
pm.
Notice
of Meeting
Dear Councillors,
Notice is
given of the Ordinary Council Meeting, to be held in
the Council Chambers on Thursday 20
March 2025 commencing at 7:00 PM. The business
to be transacted at the meeting is included in this business paper.
In accordance with clause 3.26 of the Code of Meeting Practice
Councillors are reminded of their oath or affirmation of office made under
section 233A of the Act, and of their obligations under the Council’s
Code of Conduct to disclose and appropriately manage conflicts of interest.
Yours faithfully
Steven Kludass
Acting General Manager
Council
Meeting Procedures
The Council meeting is chaired by
the Mayor, Councillor Merri Southwood. Councillors are entitled to one vote on
a matter. If votes are equal, the Chairperson has a second or casting vote.
When a majority of Councillors vote in favour of a Motion it becomes a decision
of the Council. Minutes of Council and Committee meetings are published on
Council’s website www.lanecove.nsw.gov.au by 5.00 pm on the Tuesday following the meeting.
The
Meeting is conducted in accordance with Council's Code of Meeting Practice. The
order of business is listed in the Agenda on the next page. That order will be
followed unless Council resolves to modify the order at the meeting. This may
occur for example where the members of the public in attendance are interested
in specific items on the agenda.
The Public Forum will hear
registered speakers from the Public Gallery as well as online using the web
platform Zoom. All speakers wishing to participate in
the public forum must register by using the online form no later than midnight, on the day
prior to the meeting (Wednesday, 19 March 2025) and a
Zoom meeting link will be emailed to the provided email address of those
registered as an online speaker. Please note that the time limit of three
minutes per address still applies, so please make sure your submission meets
this criteria. Alternatively, members of the public can still submit their
written address via email to service@lanecove.nsw.gov.au. Written addresses are to be received by Council no later
than midnight, on the day prior to the meeting. (500 words maximum).
Please note that meetings held in
the Council Chambers are webcasted, and recordings are made publicly available
on the Council's website. Should you require assistance to participate in the
meeting due to a disability; or wish to obtain further information in relation
to Council, please contact Council’s Director - Corporate Services and
Strategy on (02) 9911 3550.
Ordinary Council 20 March 2025
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST
APOLOGIES
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT TO COUNTRY
MINUTE OF SILENCE FOR RELECTION OR PRAYER
NOTICE OF WEBCASTING OF MEETING
public forum
Members of the public may address
the Council Meeting on any issue for 3 minutes.
CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES
ORDINARY
COUNCIL MEETING - 20 FEBRUARY 2025
Mayoral Minutes
1 Mayoral
Minute - Australian Local Government Association Campaign - Put Our Communities
First.......................................................... 5
Notices of Motion
2 Notice
of Motion - Bus Privatisation Impacts and the Auditor General's Report................................................................................................... 7
3 Notice
of Motion - Planning for Water Sensitive Urban Design Principles and Greater
Water Reuse to be implemented in Water Catchment Areas................................................................................................. 10
Officer Reports
for Determination
4 Food
Organics and Waste Services Update............................................ 13
5 Addressing
Gambling Harm and the Impact of Electronic Gaming Machines in Lane Cove........................................................................................ 16
6 Relocation
of the Lane Cove Cenotaph.................................................... 19
7 Traffic
Committee - 18 February 2025.......................................................... 22
Officer Reports
for Information
8 Naming
the Lane Cove Sport and Recreation Centre......................... 69
9 Lane
Cove Library 70th Birthday Celebrations.................................... 71
10 Launch
of the Pottery Lane Performance Space................................ 73
11 Council
Snapshot February 2025.................................................................. 75
Ordinary Council Meeting 20 March 2025
Mayoral Minute -
Australian Local Government Association Campaign - Put Our Communities First
Item No: 1
Subject: Mayoral
Minute - Australian Local Government Association Campaign - Put Our Communities
First
Record No: SU2073 - 15697/25
Division: Lane
Cove Council
Author(s): Councillor
Merri Southwood
Executive Summary
This report seeks the participation of Council in a number
of Australian Local Government Association (ALGA)’s advocacy priorities
and programs.
Background
The next Federal Election must be held by
17 May 2025.
Working in conjunction with its member
state and territory associations, the Australian Local Government Association
(ALGA) has developed a framework and resources for a national advocacy campaign
that will run in the lead up to this election.
Based around the tagline of “Put Our
Communities First”, the goal is to secure additional federal funding that
will support every council to play a bigger role delivering local solutions to
national priorities.
All Australian councils have been asked to
participate in this campaign to ensure a coordinated approach that will deliver
the best possible outcomes.
Discussion
The Put Our Communities First campaign will
advocate for new federal funding to be distributed to all councils on a
formula-basis, similar to the Commonwealth’s Roads to Recovery Program,
or the previous Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program. This will
ensure that every council and community benefits and supports local decision
making based on local needs.
ALGA has developed free campaign resources
that can be adapted and used by all councils to ensure a consistent and
effective approach.
Participating in a national advocacy
campaign does not preclude this council from advocating on additional local
needs and issues, but it will strengthen the national campaign and support all
537 Australian local governments.
The five national funding priorities have
been determined by the ALGA Board–comprised of representatives from each
of Australia’s state and territory local government
associations–and align with key national priorities.
These five funding priorities are:
· $1.1 billion per year for enabling infrastructure to unlock housing
supply,
· $500 million per year for community infrastructure,
· $600 million per year for safer local roads,
· $900 million per year for increased local government emergency
management capability and capacity, and
· $400 million per year for climate change adaptation.
Such support is to be distributed across
all councils, on a formula-basis, similar to the way Financial Assistance
Grants and Roads to Recovery funding have been provided for many years.
I seek the support of fellow Councillors
for the following recommendation.
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council:
1. supports
the national federal election funding priorities identified by the Australian
Local government Association (ALGA);
2. supports
and participates in the Put Our Communities First federal election campaign;
and
3. writes
to local federal members of parliament, all known electoral candidates in the
local federal electorates and the President of ALGA expressing support for
ALGA’s federal election funding priorities.
|
Councillor Merri Southwood
Councillor
ATTACHMENTS:
There are no supporting documents for this report.
Ordinary Council Meeting 20 March 2025
Notice of Motion - Bus
Privatisation Impacts and the Auditor General's Report
Item No: 2
Subject: Notice
of Motion - Bus Privatisation Impacts and the Auditor General's
Report
Record No: SU3411 - 15714/25
Division: Lane
Cove Council
Author(s): Councillor
Rochelle Flood
Executive Summary
A motion to advocate for the de-privatisation of Region 7 buses.
Discussion
Bus services are critically important in helping to connect
our communities, particularly here in Lane Cove
where our primary mode of public transport is the bus. Disappointingly, since
the Region 7 bus services were privatised and taken over by Busways, our
community has faced more late and cancelled bus services than ever before.
There have been a number of reports that have
identified the significant issues with our current bus services, the most
recent of which being the Auditor-Generals Report into Bus Contracts in
Metropolitan Sydney. This damning report found that “Transport for NSW
is not effectively managing contracts to ensure that operators are meeting
contracted obligations and customer needs” and further that “Operators are not consistently meeting their performance obligations for
on-time running, cancelled trips and customer complaints.”
Looking in detail at some of the key
performance metrics – it is expected that 95% of services run on time. On
time running (OTR) targets were hit less than 15% of the time during the audited period of January 2023-May 2024.
Looking specifically at Region 7, they only hit their KPI for OTR for one month in the 2023-2024 financial
year. Cancelled services
were found to be
problematic across the board, with the Auditor General finding that from
January 2023 to May 2024, operators did not meet the KPI in 79.6% of instances.
In fact, Region 7 was the worst performer by weighted average
across all key performance indicators during the period examined for the Auditor
General’s Report (see table below):
The concerning
findings in the Auditor General’s report follow previous scathing reports
into the failed bus privatisation of Sydney bus services. In 2022, an Upper
House Parliamentary Inquiry found that the
“privatisation
of Sydney’s bus network had incentivised cost-cutting, and recommended
(a) winding back privatisation in some regions, and (b) changing key
performance indicators to include the quality of service provided.”
We are now three years into a contract
intended to run until 2030, however, it is clear that this is not delivering
the reliable services our community needs. Without reliable bus services people
struggle to get to school and work, older members of our community will
struggle to get to appointments or to visit loved ones. Unreliable bus services
will ultimately force more and more people back into their cars, increasing
congestion and worsening transport related emissions. In light of the ongoing
failures and poor outcomes in our region, we need to increase advocacy to see
these contracts overturned as early as possible, with the services brought back
in-house.
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council:
1. Notes
the poor performance of busways (North Shore) in the recently released
Auditor General’s report into bus contracts in Metropolitan Sydney.
2. Writes
to the NSW Minister for Transport and Transport for NSW:
a) Expressing
concern at the Auditor General’s findings and advocating for the region
7 bus contracts to be cancelled and returned to public operation as soon as
possible,
b) Inquiring
as to what interim measures Transport for NSW can implement to improve bus
reliability and connectivity in the interim, and
c) Include
in correspondence evidence of local impacts including complaints that Council
has received through the bus service reporting portal.
3. Writes
to the President of Northern Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils (NSROC)
to request the issue of poor bus services following privatisation in the
lower north short region be tabled for discussion to further investigate
joint advocacy options to improve the region’s bus services,
particularly in light of new findings from the Auditor General’s
report.
|
Councillor Rochelle Flood
Councillor
ATTACHMENTS:
There are no supporting documents for this report.
Ordinary Council Meeting 20 March 2025
Notice of Motion -
Planning for Water Sensitive Urban Design Principles and Greater Water Reuse to
be implemented in Water Catchment Areas.
Item No: 3
Subject: Notice
of Motion - Planning for Water Sensitive Urban Design Principles and Greater
Water Reuse to be implemented in Water Catchment Areas.
Record No: SU10235 - 15670/25
Division: Lane
Cove Council
Author(s): Councillor
Bridget Kennedy; Councillor Kathy Bryla
Executive Summary
This motion calls for the development of
“Water Catchment Plans” for the Stringybark Reserve and Burns Bay
Reserve catchment areas in Lane Cove. The aim is to have such plans available
to be implemented in conjunction with the reserve master plans for catchment
areas. To support this, develop and implement an education program around Water
Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) and maximise water reuse, including how these
practices can lead to enhanced sustainability and environmental resilience in Lane
Cove.
Background
Aligning with the Lane Cove
Community Strategic Plan's objective on water conservation and management, the
revised Lane Cove Development Control Plan, introduces measures to advance this
goal. In addition, the Open Spaces team has integrated WSUD features, such as
rain gardens into redeveloped areas, reinforcing our commitment to sustainable
urban design.
The effects of climate change are twofold:
warmer-than-usual temperatures with high evaporation rates and increased
periods of intense rainfall with high volumes of water. These climate effects
increase the pressure on our current stormwater systems, waterways and, over
time, have the potential to increase our need to reuse water.
In urban areas, rainfall runs off
impervious surfaces like roofs and roads, quickly entering waterways through
drainage systems. This limits natural infiltration, evaporation, and
transpiration, increasing runoff and the risk of localised flooding during
heavy rain.
Developing
a broader long-term
plan for WSUD
in relation to our water catchment areas is required to
protect our natural environment and build our resilience into the future.
Effectively reducing net water consumption, managing stormwater runoff and
reducing nutrient loads are critical to protecting waterways, enhancing
sustainability, and building long-term water resilience in our community.
WSUD benefits in Lane
Cove include:
● Reducing urban flooding and erosion,
● Improving water quality and preventing pollution,
● Enhancing urban aesthetics and biodiversity,
● Supporting climate change adaptation and resilience,
● Mitigating heat island
effects through greening,
● Promoting sustainable water use and reducing pressure on water
supply systems.
With a growing
population and increasing development, addressing rising water consumption and stormwater runoff is essential. Several
councils are leading
the way in WSUD adoption,
providing inspiration for Lane Cove's continued efforts, including:
Byron Bay
https://www.byron.nsw.gov.au/Council/Plans-Strategies/Policies/Water-Sensitive-Urban-Design-Policy
Blacktown Council
https://www.blacktown.nsw.gov.au/Plan-build/Stage-2-plans-and-guidelines/Stormwater-management- and-water-sensitive-urban-design-WSUD/Water-sensitive-urban-design-WSUD
Ballina Shire
https://issuu.com/ballinashirecouncil/docs/healthy_waterways_program_2021
In addition, Sydney
Water have a good set of introductory guidelines to reference:
https://www.sydneywater.com.au/content/dam/sydneywater/documents/water-sensitive-urban-design.p df
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council:
1. Invite a member from the Sydney
Water Business Development team to present
to key council staff and Councillors on the
work they are undertaking,
2. Provide a report to Council on
resourcing and funds required to implement the actions below:
a) Engage
an external consultant to produce Water Catchment Plans for Stringybark Creek
and Burns Bay Reserve that:
i) Outline
targets to achieve water management targets typically covering:
· Water
quality/pollution reduction targets
· Runoff volume to
protect local waterways from erosion and degradation
· Urban/Waterway
Outcome targets in terms of biodiversity and urban cooling
ii) Provide
a timeline to achieve these targets,
iii) Describe
the methods to achieve the targets,
3. Organise a meeting with the broader stakeholders who may
assist with grant
funding and knowledge sharing
for Item 2. For example:
a) Representatives from adjoining catchment areas including Parramatta River catchment group and Lane Cove River councils,
b) Representative from
Department of Climate Change, Energy and
Environment and Water (DCCEEW)
NSW who are working on an integrated water management framework, a recycled
water road map and Water Sensitive Urban Design Policy,
c) Sydney Water and other agencies,
4. Instigate a new communication engagement strategy with
workshops and campaigns:
a) to raise community awareness on how we can keep our waterways clean,
as well as promote rebates Council offers for rainwater capture,
b) to raise awareness about the benefits of WSUD among
residents and businesses,
c) to encourage community participation in water-sensitive initiatives, including
optimising on-lot stormwater retention infrastructure already in place,
5. Ensure the
communication engagement strategies also target residences and businesses in
the related two catchment areas of this motion; and
6. Investigate how the current On The Verge program could be expanded
to include bioswales for verges that are on contour.
|
Councillor Bridget Kennedy
Councillor
Councillor Kathy Bryla
Councillor
ATTACHMENTS:
There are no supporting documents for this report.
Ordinary Council Meeting 20 March 2025
Food Organics and Waste
Services Update
Item No: 4
Subject: Food Organics and Waste Services Update
Record No: SU9369 - 13495/25
Division: Planning and
Sustainability Division
Author(s): Bernadette
Riad
Executive Summary
The NSW Waste and
Sustainable Strategy 2041 signaled a mandate for all councils to implement a
food organics collection service by 1 July 2030.
At the meeting of July 2024, Council
resolved to; give the highest priority to researching and implementing a
Council-wide food collection service and brief the new Council on regional
waste practices and position (including FOGO).
This report provides a summary of the
presentation made to Council at their Corporate Planning Weekend in February
2025 and seeks endorsement for Council staff to commence discussions with our
existing Waste Contractors for the implementation a food organics collection
service.
Background
Landfill capacity servicing the Sydney
Metropolitan Area is set to drop significantly from 2030 which presents a very
real challenge for councils in terms of waste disposal. There are currently no
known plans for new capacity around Sydney, and with development timeframes of
5-10 years for waste facilities, this is pushing very close to the edge of what
has been termed ‘the landfill cliff’.
Similarly, there are limited facilities
which accept food and garden organics. Whilst more facilities are coming online
following the signaling of mandated food waste collections, modelling indicates
that, as at 2030, there will be a capacity gap of 1.1M
tonnes per annum.
The NSW Government has adopted targets to
halve food waste to landfill by 2030 and achieve net zero emissions from
organics in landfill. To help achieve these targets, the NSW EPA tabled the
“Protection of the Environment Amendment Legislation (FOGO Recycling)
Bill’ to the Upper House in November 2024 which includes a mandate for
all councils to implement a food organics collection service by 1 July
2030.
Discussion
Councillors were briefed on Council’s
current waste contracts and the potential for food waste collection services
and processing technologies at their Corporate Planning session in February
2025.
Data from Council’s most recent waste
audits in 2023 indicate that food waste accounts for 43% (by weight) of the
material in the average general waste bin. Capturing this material for
reprocessing into compost and soil products provides both opportunities for
reduced emissions and the recycling of food wastes into valuable products.
Food collection services can be delivered
as either Food Organics (FO) services, or Food Organics and Garden Organics
(FOGO) services.
What the two options look like in practice:
FO service
|
|
· 80L FO bin (weekly)
· 80L general waste bin (weekly)
· 240L GO bin (fortnightly)
· 120L container bin (fortnightly)
· 120L paper bin (fortnightly)
|
FOGO service
|
 
|
· 240L FOGO bin (weekly)
· 80L general waste bin (weekly)
· 120L container bin (fortnightly)
· 120L paper bin (fortnightly)
|
Initial modelling demonstrates that a FO
service would deliver superior outcomes due to the ability to capture energy
from the anaerobic digestion process of the disposal facility, minimising
contamination by separating the food and garden organics streams and continuing
to capitalise on the low gate fee for garden organics.
Funding has been received from the NSW EPA
under their Joint Procurement Fund for Lane Cove and Hunters Hill Councils to
jointly undertake the below activities to work towards implementation of a food
organics service;
· A
bin reconciliation to ensure data accuracy of on-ground services which is
critical for planning service rollouts; and
· Legal
services for contract review and negotiations that will achieve formal pricing
to complete the financial modelling required to secure a preferred service
model.
Council will receive a future report
outlining the outcomes of these activities and the information required to
endorse a preferred service model and implementation plan.
Conclusion
With limited processing capacity for both
FO and FOGO service options, Council is exploring options to take advantage of
the capacity currently available.
Initial modelling demonstrates that a FO
service would deliver superior financial and environmental outcomes. A further
report will be brought to Council for consideration and endorsement following
contract negotiations.
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council:
1. Note the information provided
in the report, and
2. Endorse the next steps as outlined
in this report to work towards the implementation of a food organics service.
|
Mark Brisby
Director - Planning and Sustainability
Planning and Sustainability Division
ATTACHMENTS:
There are no supporting documents for this report.
Ordinary Council Meeting 20 March 2025
Addressing Gambling Harm
and the Impact of Electronic Gaming Machines in Lane Cove
Item No: 5
Subject: Addressing Gambling Harm and the Impact of Electronic Gaming
Machines in Lane Cove
Record No: SU6840 - 13423/25
Division: Community and
Culture Division
Author(s): Stephanie
Kelly
Executive Summary
This report responds to the growing
concerns about gambling harm associated with poker machines in Lane
Cove’s council-owned venues. It outlines a transition plan to gradually
remove poker machines from these venues, restrict gambling advertising, and
enhance harm minimisation initiatives. The plan aligns with Council’s
community strategic priorities and ensures a balanced approach that considers
both social responsibility and venue sustainability.
This report provides an overview of actions
taken following the July 2024 Council resolution including participation in
Gamble Aware Week last October, the development of a webpage to support anyone
in our community who may have a problem with gambling, and the development of a
new draft policy ready for community consultation.
Background
Gambling, particularly through Electronic
Gaming Machines (EGMs) otherwise known as poker machines, is a significant
social issue in Australia, with NSW hosting 87,000 of the country’s
machines. Lane Cove currently has two council-owned venues with EGMs:
· The Longueville Sporting Club (‘The Diddy’) – 10
machines
· Lane Cove West Bowling Club – 7 machines
Research indicates that poker machines
contribute to financial hardship, relationship breakdowns, and mental health
struggles. Additionally, recent reports link poker machines to money
laundering. Several councils across NSW and Victoria have implemented measures
to phase out poker machines, with some already successfully transitioning their
venues to be gambling-free.
At its meeting on the 18 July 2024 Council
resolved to:
1. Develop
a simple gambling harm reduction policy that aims to:
a. Phase out EGM machines on council owned property (as
property lease agreements come up for renewal); and
b. Phase out gambling advertising on council-owned
property,
2. Initiate
preliminary conversation with the current leaseholders for the two council
owned venues which currently house EGMs to begin discussions on possible steps
towards becoming EGM-free venues - to help develop a supported transition plan.
a. In the interim, encourage the operators to display
and actively promote harm minimisation support services as an immediate
initiative; and
3. Investigate
opportunities to expand on council’s existing work to support and
collaborate with organisation caring for people with gambling addictions and
their families including GambleAware North Sydney and Central Coast (which
covers the Lane Cove LGA), and other local providers. For example, this could
include:
a. Helping direct residents to practical support
webinars and workshops run by existing gambling support services (through
formal or informal referrals);
b. Offering council venues for free to host gambling
support meetings/events/workshops; and
c. Sharing gambling addiction campaign materials from
the Department of Liquor and Gaming to help increase awareness of gambling
harms and to broaden the reach of these important campaigns.
Discussion
In response to this resolution, Council has
taken proactive steps to address gambling harm and promote responsible gambling
in the community. These efforts align with Council’s commitment to
fostering a safer and more supportive environment for residents.
One key initiative was Council’s
active participation in GambleAware Week 2024 (21–27 October), supporting
the campaign "Safer Gambling. Are you onboard?" This campaign
promoted responsible gambling behaviors such as setting limits, avoiding
gambling under the influence, maintaining a balanced lifestyle, and not chasing
losses. Council helped raise awareness through social media outreach, engaging
the local community in discussions about safer gambling practices.
To provide a lasting resource, Council has
developed a dedicated webpage outlining its approach to gambling harm
reduction. This page serves as an easy-to-follow resource for local residents,
signposting them to government-funded GambleAware NSW and Gamblers Anonymous
Australia for additional support.
A draft Gambling Harm Minimisation Policy
(included as AT-1) has also been developed, reinforcing Council’s
commitment to gradually phasing out electronic gaming machines (EGMs) from
Council-owned venues and supporting harm reduction efforts. This will be
achieved through:
· Phasing out EGMs as lease and licensing agreements are renewed.
· Engaging with leaseholders to transition towards EGM-free venues.
· Supporting gambling harm minimisation services, ensuring those
affected by gambling addiction can access help when needed.
· Raising awareness about gambling harm through annual initiatives
such as GambleAware Week, social media campaigns, and other community education
opportunities.
It is recommended that this draft policy go
to community consultation.
Community Consultation
Statement of Intent
The consultation is designed to ascertain
the community’s views on the Draft Gambling Harm Minimisation
Policy. Any comments received will be reviewed and evaluated to determine
whether or not to proceed with the policy or to determine whether to
incorporate any
amendments or additional supplementary
provisions.
Method
|
Level of Participation
|
Inform
|
Consult
|
|
Form of Participation
|
Open
|
Open
|
|
Target Audience
|
Lane Cove Community and Community Clubs
|
Lane Cove Community
|
|
Proposed Medium
|
eNewsletter
|
Website
Exhibition and Have your Say
|
|
Indicative Timing
|
April to May.
|
Conclusion
These initiatives mark important progress
towards reducing gambling harm in Lane Cove local government area. By
implementing an informed and strategic approach, Council is working towards
creating safer, family-friendly public spaces while ensuring ongoing community
education and support. Further refinements to the policy and partnerships with
key stakeholders will ensure that Council continues to address gambling-related
harm effectively.
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council:
1. Approve the commencement of community
consultation related to the draft policy, and
2. Receive and note the gambling harm minimisation
activities detailed in the report.
|
Stephanie Kelly
Director - Community and Culture
Community and Culture Division
ATTACHMENTS:
|
AT‑1 View
|
Draft Gambling Harm Minimisation Policy 2025
|
3 Pages
|
Available Electronically
|
Ordinary Council Meeting 20 March 2025
Relocation of the Lane
Cove Cenotaph
Item No: 6
Subject: Relocation of the Lane Cove Cenotaph
Record No: SU26 - 13553/25
Division: Community and
Culture Division
Author(s): Stephanie
Kelly
Executive Summary
In April 2024, Council considered
relocating the Lane Cove Cenotaph. A report in October 2024 presented three
options:retain its current location, move to the Plaza garden bed or The
Canopy. The decision was deferred for a workshop with the Department of
Veterans' Affairs and the local RSL sub-branch.
This workshop occurred in February 2025.
The current recommendation is to enhance the War Memorial at its existing site.
Background
The Lane Cove Cenotaph is a rectangular
altar made of dark grey granite. On its front face it is engraved with a gold
wreath which is inscribed with the words “Lest we forget”. It
is located on the corner of Longueville Road and Austin Street next to the Lane
Cove Library. Adjoining the Cenotaph is also a small memorial that is
associated with the site.
Historically, commemorations were held at
its site, but ANZAC Day services moved to the Plaza and later to The Canopy due
to growing attendance. Remembrance Day remains in the Plaza. Temporary
arrangements are used for wreath-laying at these ceremonies, with tributes
later relocated by local school and service group representatives.
In April 2024, Council considered
relocating the Cenotaph and resolved to:
1. Work with Lane Cove RSL Subbranch to identify other
possible locations for the Cenotaph, including the garden bed to the left of
The Canopy’s stage, which is more prominent than the current location.
2. That a report be prepared for Council with locations,
costs and procedures required to move the Cenotaph; and
3. Commence work on this resolution when resource capacity
permits.
A report was prepared detailing three
options for relocation. Council officers assessed three options for the
Cenotaph: retaining its current location, relocating to the Lane Cove Plaza in
a larger garden bed, or moving to The Canopy in the garden bed adjacent to the
stage. The existing site offers stability, avoids relocation risks, and
accommodates the plinth and adjacent memorial but has limited visibility and
space for large gatherings. The Plaza Garden bed was deemed unsuitable due to
insufficient space, while The Canopy's proximity to a playground and event area
made it inappropriate for maintaining the memorial's solemnity.
At this meeting Council resolved:
that Council
defer consideration of the possible
relocation of the Cenotaph in Lane Cove to a future Council meeting and that
the Department of Veteran’s Affairs and Lane Cove RSL sub-branch be
invited to a Councillor workshop to discuss the proposal early in Q1 2025.
Discussion
This report was considered at a Council
workshop in February 2025 where the representatives from the Returned and
Services League Sub-branch and the Department of Veterans Affairs were present
and could discuss the options in detail with the Councillors.
The discussion evaluated three potential
locations and visual representations for the options. Several concerns were
raised regarding the proposed relocation of the Lane Cove Cenotaph. The primary
issue was the high risk of structural damage, as the monument's original
construction method remains unknown. Relocation would require removing the
plinth due to space constraints, diminishing the Cenotaph’s presence. The
surrounding infrastructure at The Canopy and Lane Cove Plaza could also
overshadow the memorial, reducing its prominence. In particular the locations
removed the surrounding bollards that help the community maintain a reasonable
distance from the memorial. The proximity of play equipment and spaces puts the
memorial at risk from children climbing the structure.
After the discussion there was a preference
from all parties to maintain the current site of the memorial. Given the
structural risks and concerns about visibility and space, it was concluded that
the best approach is to retain the Cenotaph in its current location while
enhancing its significance.
Recommended actions include commissioning a
heritage report to document the historical value of the current site including
both the Living and Learning Centre memorial and the Cenotaph along with the
World War Two memorial adjacent to the Library. NSW Government funding through
the Community War Memorial Fund provides an opportunity to develop this
study, and an application should be made when the funding round opens this
year.
A further suggestion to enhance the site
included improving lighting of the memorials for greater visibility and
installing additional markers to reinforce the site's historical importance.
Investing in digital commemorative materials would provide an interactive and
educational resource for the community. These measures will ensure the Cenotaph
remains a dignified and well-recognised memorial space.
Conclusion
The process of considering the Lane Cove
Cenotaph relocation has been valuable in highlighting the significance of the
site. It has provided an opportunity to reflect on ways to document, enhance,
and improve the space for meaningful appreciation and remembrance.
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RECOMMENDATION
That Council:
1. Receive and note the
investigation into the potential relocation of the Lane Cove Cenotaph is now
formally closed;
2. Confirm that the Lane Cove
Cenotaph will be maintained in its current location; and
3. Note that opportunities to enhance the documentation,
presentation, and community education surrounding the Cenotaph will be
pursued within the cultural programs budget and through relevant grant
funding applications over the next four years.
|
Stephanie Kelly
Director - Community and Culture
Community and Culture Division
ATTACHMENTS:
There are no supporting documents for this report.
Ordinary Council Meeting 20 March 2025
Traffic Committee - 18
February 2025
Item No: 7
Subject: Traffic Committee - 18 February 2025
Record No: SU1326 - 15049/25
Division: Open Space and
Infrastructure Division
Author(s): Hasir
Suhaib
Executive Summary
The Lane Cove
Traffic Committee has met and provided recommendations for Council’s
consideration. The attached Minutes include a
summary of each item – it is recommended the February 2025 Minutes are
adopted for implementation.
Background
The Lane Cove Traffic Committee is a
requirement of Transport for NSW and is primarily a technical review committee,
which provides advice to Council on matters referred to it by Council.
These matters must be related to prescribed
traffic control devices and traffic control facilities for which Council has
delegated authority.
The Committee has no decision-making
powers, it makes recommendations for the Council to consider, but Council is
not bound by the advice.
Discussion
The Lane Cove Traffic Committee Meeting was
held on Tuesday 18 February 2025. The Agenda is included as AT-1. The
Traffic Committee recommendations are shown in the Minutes of the Meeting,
included as AT-2.
Agenda Items were as follows:
1. Confirmation
of Minutes of Traffic Committee - 19 November 2024
2. Dunois, Kenneth, William Edward and Stuart Streets (Kingsford Oval),
Longueville - Installation of 'No Parking Motor Vehicles Excepted' –
REVIEW
3. Tambourine
Bay Road and Coxs Lane (River Road to Epping Road) - Implementation of "No
Trucks Over 3T"
4. River
Road West from Austin Street to Tambourine Bay Road, Lane Cove - Traffic Safety
Improvement Works.
5. Taylors
Lane (Burley Street to Cul-de-Sac), Lane Cove - Improve Traffic Safety at Bend.
6. Regulatory
Signposting and Linemarking.
7. “LOOK BEFORE YOU
CROSS”
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RECOMMENDATION
That Council:
1. Adopt
the recommendations of the Lane Cove Traffic Committee Meeting held on
Tuesday 18 February 2025.
|
Martin Terescenko
Director - Open Space and Infrastructure
Open Space and Infrastructure Division
ATTACHMENTS:
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AT‑1 View
|
Agenda - Traffic Committee - 18 February 2025
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|
|
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AT‑2 View
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Minutes of Traffic Committee - Tuesday, 18 February 2025
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|
|
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ATTACHMENT 1
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Agenda - Traffic Committee - 18 February 2025
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ATTACHMENT 2
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Minutes of Traffic Committee - Tuesday, 18 February 2025
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Ordinary Council Meeting 20 March 2025
Naming the Lane Cove
Sport and Recreation Centre
Item No: 8
Subject: Naming the Lane Cove Sport and Recreation Centre
Record No: SU9115 - 15765/25
Division: General Managers
Unit
Author(s): Corinne
Hitchenson
Executive Summary
The purpose of this report is to update
Council on the process to establish a permanent name for the Lane Cove Sport
and Recreation Centre.
Background
With construction of the Lane Cove Sport
and Recreation Centre remaining on track for completion by late 2025, the time
has come to finalise the permanent name for the facility.
Council has previously sought community
input into the naming of other transformational projects such as Wadanggari
Park and The Canopy.
Discussion
Lane Cove Sport and Recreation Centre has
been used as the project name for the construction of the exciting new eight
court multi-sport facility at 180 River Road, Lane Cove. The facility also
provides for a range of other uses including multi-purpose community rooms, a
bistro/dining venue as well as a golf pro shop and amenities.
The current stage of the construction
process requires decisions to be made for signage and other permanent features
which would incorporate the facility’s name.
Staff have identified the opportunity for
the community to make suggestions which can be considered as part of the
process of finalising the permanent name. The ideas may also be incorporated
into other aspects of the project’s finalisation.
The community will be invited to make
suggestions from 21 March 2025, including those who have subscribed to stay
updated on the project throughout its construction.
The suggestions will be reviewed and
considered alongside the various requirements for the project with Councillors
provided with a briefing on the final name selection.
Conclusion
The time has come to finalise the name of
the Lane Cove Sport and Recreation Centre ahead of its completion later this
year. The community will be invited to make suggestions which can be considered
as part of the process of finalising the permanent name.
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council:
1. Receive and note the report.
|
Steven Kludass
Acting General Manager
General Managers Unit
ATTACHMENTS:
There are no supporting documents for this report.
Ordinary Council Meeting 20 March 2025
Lane Cove Library 70th
Birthday Celebrations
Item No: 9
Subject: Lane Cove Library 70th Birthday Celebrations
Record No: SU1737 - 14336/25
Division: General Managers
Unit
Author(s): Corinne
Hitchenson
Executive Summary
More than 100 community members, Councillors and staff
celebrated Lane Cove Library’s 70th birthday on 11
February 2025. The gathering is just one of several ways the milestone birthday
will be celebrated throughout 2025.
Background
In May 1945 Lane Cove Council adopted the
NSW Library Act, which supported the establishment of a free public library
service. At the same time Council began discussions with the Lane Cove War
Memorial School of Arts Committee about acquiring the building for Lane
Cove’s first free public library.
Lane Cove Library was officially opened on
11 February 1955 by John Metcalfe, Principal Librarian of the Public Library of
NSW. When Council relocated to a new Council Chambers in 1961 it was decided to
convert the 1924 Council Chambers to a larger and updated Library. The new
Library opened at its current site in 1962 with the new Library building
opening in 2010 after the Market Square development gave Council an opportunity
to improve carparking facilities and to extend the Library.
In 1983, five
Councils established one of Australia’s first library consortiums,
Shorelink. These Councils recognised that co-operation could deliver service
and economic benefits to their communities. The continued support of our two
Shorelink partners – Mosman and North Sydney Councils has strengthened
what we can offer to our communities. Shorelink recently celebrated its 40th
anniversary.
The establishment of a local studies
collection in 1980 has been important in connecting the Lane Cove community
with their heritage and is now regarded as one of the most outstanding
collections in NSW.
The commencement of a home library service
in 1986 reached beyond the Library walls to offer Library resources to
housebound members of the community. Council expanded the delivery service
concept again in recent years with the unique Library-to-Your Door service.
Discussion
On 11 February 2025, 70 years to the day since the Library
officially opened, more than 100 guests gathered to celebrate this significant
birthday. Joined by the New South Wales State Librarian, Dr Caroline
Butler-Bowdon, the celebrations included a film made by the passionate library
staff, addresses from Mayor, Councillor Merri Southwood and Dr Caroline
Butler-Bowden, birthday cake, launch of the new Library cards, and the
unveiling of new art to commemorate this milestone occasion.
In her speech, Dr Butler-Bowdon marvelled that Lane
Cove’s achievement of highest loans in the state per capita was testament
to the rigour and commitment of the staff, and the enthusiasm of the local
community to learn:
“We visited Lane Cove Library on a Tuesday morning,
and the place was humming. There was baby bounce and I’ve never seen so
many prams parked up and down the Australian History section. People were
reading newspapers, the children’s area at the other end was alive,
students were deep in assignments, librarians assisting so many people with
their enquiries, and people coming and going with their borrowed items. There
was warmth, there was friendliness, an oasis for community, and an anchor of
the community. A place where reading for knowledge and reading for pleasure is
greatly valued. And of course, libraries more generally are about finding out
where we all fit in the world; we read, we learn to understand our place and
libraries are here to provide information – but not to tell you what to
think.”
Carla Gottgens created a wonderfully vibrant multilayered
cardboard artwork, showcasing the library and its central place in the fabric
of the Lane Cove community. The artwork will be on display in the foyer of the
library all year.
The library is also currently displaying an art exhibition
by artist Mark Gowing and putting the finishing touches on some new initiatives
being launched during their 70th year including the LEGO Library
Club; Virtual book reviews; AI Cats and the Lane Cove Seed Library.
Conclusion
As Council marks the 70th Birthday of Lane Cove Library
we celebrate not just the importance of this building but the role that the
services, programs, staff and community play. These aspects are what make Lane
Cove Library truly ‘a part of life’.
|
RECOMMENDATION
That Council:
1. Receive
and note the report.
|
Stephanie Kelly
Director - Community and Culture
Community and Culture Division
ATTACHMENTS:
There are no supporting documents for this report.
Ordinary Council Meeting 20 March 2025
Launch of the Pottery
Lane Performance Space
Item No: 10
Subject: Launch of the Pottery Lane Performance Space
Record No: SU9095 - 14538/25
Division: Community and Culture
Division
Author(s): Stephanie
Kelly
Executive Summary
The Pottery Lane Performance Space
officially opened on 27 February 2025 with a vibrant launch event that
showcased the venue’s capabilities as a premier cultural hub in Lane
Cove. The evening featured performances by a Jazz Trio and Soul vocalists,
demonstrating the theatre’s state-of-the-art sound quality. A video
presentation highlighted the venue’s versatility, lighting, acoustics,
and accessibility features, including braille signage and lift access. The
event was well attended, celebrating the culmination of a long-term community
vision for a dedicated performance space.
Background
The Pottery Lane Performance Space (PLPS)
has been a long-standing aspiration of the Lane Cove arts and performance
community. This venue provides a purpose-built space for theatre, music, film
screenings, and cultural events. Council worked closely with community members,
performance groups, and accessibility advocates to create an inclusive,
high-quality venue that caters to a diverse range of performers and audiences.
Discussion
Launch Event Highlights
The opening night was a celebration of the
arts and community collaboration.
The event began with a Smoking Ceremony
performed by Harry Whitting and students and staff from St. Ignatius’
College Riverview on the terrace. This cleansing symbolised a fresh beginning
and a spiritual blessing for the new performance space. Attendees were invited
to participate in this meaningful tradition before moving inside for the formal
proceedings.
The Mayor’s Address officially
welcomed attendees and acknowledged the Traditional Custodians of the land, the
Cameraygal people. The Mayor expressed gratitude to the many individuals and
groups who contributed to making this performance space a reality, highlighting
the decades of advocacy by local artists and theatre groups.
The event featured Live Performances by a
Jazz Trio and Soul vocalists, who demonstrated the outstanding acoustics of the
theatre. The performances captivated the audience and underscored the potential
of the venue for hosting high-quality musical and theatrical productions.
A video of the development of the space was
played on the theatre’s audio-visual system. The video DJ provided a
comprehensive look at the features of the space, including the high-definition
digital screen, professional-grade lighting, and the flexibility of the venue
to accommodate a range of performances and events.
A key part of the event was an
Accessibility Demonstration, which highlighted the inclusive features of the
venue. This included lift access, braille signage, and seating arrangements
designed to accommodate individuals with limited mobility. The use of Auslan
interpretation throughout the event reinforced Council’s commitment to
accessibility and inclusivity in the space.
A Photography Exhibition was displayed in
the foyer, featuring striking images of local performers and artists from Lane
Cove taken by artist photographer Joshua Morris. Curated by Miguel Olmo of
Gallery Lane Cove, the exhibition set the tone for the venue’s role as a
cultural hub and celebrated the talent within the community.
The evening concluded with the Ribbon
Cutting Ceremony, which officially marked the opening of the Pottery Lane
Performance Space. This symbolic moment was met with applause as attendees
celebrated the realisation of a long-standing dream for the community.
Community Impact and Future Programming
For the past few months, a number of trial performances have
been hosted at the Pottery Lane Performance Space, and this will continue until
30 June 2025 to raise awareness of the venue and refine its operations. These
trial events have included comedy showcases, film workshops, church services,
international webcasts, and cultural celebrations. Each performance has
provided valuable insights into how the space can best be utilised and allowed
Council to fine-tune logistics, technical support, and accessibility features
to enhance the user experience.
In the coming months, the venue will host a
Jazz Concert, which will be one of the first major musical performances to take
place in the space. The Lane Cove Theatre Company’s first play will take
the stage in March, bringing live theatre to the heart of the community. In
April, Lane Cove Music and Culture will present a performance, further
showcasing the venue’s acoustic capabilities. Additionally, the space
will support a performance and confidence workshop series, offering
opportunities for aspiring performers to refine their skills. A special lecture
by parenting expert Maggie Dent is scheduled, catering to young families and
reinforcing the venue’s flexibility in hosting diverse community events.
Conclusion
The opening of PLPS represents a
significant milestone for Lane Cove’s cultural landscape. Designed as a
community asset, the space will serve a diverse range of groups, including the
Lane Cove Theatre Company, local musicians, and cultural organisations. The
venue will continue to evolve, ensuring it remains a dynamic and inclusive
space for creativity and artistic expression.
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RECOMMENDATION
That Council:
1. Receive and note this report.
|
Stephanie Kelly
Director - Community and Culture
Community and Culture Division
ATTACHMENTS:
There are no supporting documents for this report.
Ordinary Council Meeting 20 March 2025
Council Snapshot
February 2025
Item No: 11
Subject: Council Snapshot February 2025
Record No: SU220 - 15451/25
Division: General Managers
Unit
Author(s): Corinne
Hitchenson
Attached for the information of Councillors
is a review of Council’s recent activities.
This Snapshot report provides a summary of
the operations of each Division within Council for February 2025 at AT-1.
Included at AT-2 is
Council’s Resolution Tracker showing the progress of Council’s
resolutions.
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RECOMMENDATION
That Council:
1. Receive and note the report.
|
Steven Kludass
Acting General Manager
General Managers Unit
ATTACHMENTS:
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AT‑1 View
|
Council Snapshot February 2025
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36 Pages
|
Available Electronically
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AT‑2 View
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Resolution Tracker for March Council Meeting
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31 Pages
|
Available Electronically
|
