A Canberra region supermarket operator says he can resolve Bungendore's debate over a contentious development that threatens to remove two heritage cottages from the tourist and commuter village east of the capital.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The Krnc Group has lodged plans with Palerang Council for a full-line supermarket, comprising 2200 square metres of floor space, a first-floor administration office and parking space for 131 cars.
The site fronts Malbon Street near a restaurant and well away from two heritage-listed workers cottages, which could be removed to make way for another supermarket.
Palerang Shire is negotiating with the developer to remove the cottages at 12 and 14 Malbon Street, to make way for an IGA supermarket (unrelated to the Krnc proposal), car park and speciality shops.
Krnc Group spokesman Rodney Thompson said his development would be sympathetic to the village environment and the wishes of local residents. He said two older buildings, 36 Malbon Street, which is heritage-listed, and 40 Malbon Street, which is occupied by Le Tres Bon restaurant, would be retained.
Restaurateur Christophe Gregoire said he would buy the 1898 home.
''We are happy with this, we would like to keep the beautiful little cottage and renovate it. We say this is a win-win,'' he said.
Mr Thompson said the site's development would leave the cottages on the street, rather than having the new supermarket on the street, which forms part of the Kings Highway.
Many of the 2000 residents who signed a petition opposed to removing 12 and 14 Malbon Street believe the heritage character should be retained.
Mr Thompson said the latest development provided more car parking spaces than required under planning rules.
''The location ensures that rather than add additional pressure to the poor car parking amenity in the main street, our parking is fully self-sufficient on our proposed site.
''The finishes of the development are similar to other recent developments in the town.''
He said the project did not include additional specialty shops.
''We are more than happy to speak to any community groups about the development as required, and have left our contact details at council.''
Mr Thompson said he hoped the Krnc proposal would allow the council to develop land near 14 and 12 Malbon Street for car parking, while retaining the cottages.
''It seems a win for all parties.''
