Masterplan to Make a Village
A $450 million masterplan to turn the site of Central Coast Leagues Club into a “vibrant village scene” represents one of the most ambitious redevelopment projects seen in NSW.
Work is underway on the first stage of the project, which is a revitalised ground floor precinct at the popular Club, but that is just the beginning of the process to completely overhaul the venue's footprint.
“The masterplan encompasses a comprehensive redevelopment of the entire Club site, entailing the demolition of the existing structure to pave the way for a state-of-the-art Club of the future,” says Central Coast Leagues Club CEO Edward Camilleri.
“This visionary project will incorporate a hotel, a vibrant mix of strata-titled apartments and a commercial precinct, all seamlessly integrated within a unified space.”
An undertaking of this magnitude was deemed necessary to maintain the Club’s relevance and viability in a rapidly changing region.
“The ongoing redevelopment of Gosford city, which involves the construction of various commercial zones, areas, and multiple apartment blocks, is transforming the entire area. To adapt to this changing landscape and to remain relevant, it was essential for the Club to undergo a revamp,” says Edward.
“Additionally, the revamp aims to create diversified income streams that will sustain the Club in the future. By incorporating new elements such as commercial spaces, strata-tiled apartments, and a hotel, the Club can generate revenue from multiple sources and ensure its financial stability in the long run. This strategic approach allows the Club to evolve with the changing times and secure its position in the future Gosford community.”
The masterplan was presented at the latest Annual General Meeting in November 2022, where members heard of the desire to foster a sense of community into the future by updating the Club which was established in 1954 as the first registered club on the Central Coast.
“Members expressed considerable enthusiasm and excitement for the masterplan when it was presented. The reception among members was highly positive, as they recognised the potential of the redevelopment to transform the site and bring about positive changes,” says Edward.
“The Board of Directors and management are particularly excited about the prospect of creating a vibrant village scene and fostering a sense of community. The update aims to create a welcoming environment for members and the broader community by incorporating elements that encourage interaction, engagement, and a sense of belonging.
“Additionally, focusing on developing a better Club for the future signifies a commitment to enhancing the overall experience, offering improved facilities, amenities, and services to benefit everyone involved."
Significant challenges and mammoth costs come with a plan of this scale and the grander redevelopment of the entire Club remains in the planning and approval process.
“The redevelopment project is currently in the process of state planning and is anticipated to receive approval for the State Environmental Assessment Report in the coming months. Following the approval, the works are scheduled to commence within the next five to seven years,” says Edward.
“Navigating the planning process has proven to be a significant hurdle. The intricacies and complexities involved in obtaining necessary approvals and adhering to regulatory requirements have required careful consideration and coordination. Another challenge has been the cost associated with the planning process. Engaging multiple consultants to provide specialised expertise and guidance has added another layer of complexity to the process.
“Despite these challenges, the determination to create a revitalised Central Coast Leagues Club that will serve as a vital part of the local community for generations remains unwavering.”
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