Port Stephens Council staff recommend rejecting Raymond Terrace development

Port Stephens Council staff have recommended the refusal of a mixed-use commercial development in Raymond Terrace due to significant flood risks. The application, submitted by Vanreid Industries, proposes demolishing existing structures at 2 to 8 Carmichael Street to make way for a food-and-drink premises with a drive-through, a rural supplies store, a warehouse, and three office tenancies.

An assessment report by development services section manager Ryan Falkenmire identified flooding as the primary concern. Modeling indicates that the proposed floor levels are insufficient, suggesting the premises would flood during most one-in-20-year flood events. In a one-in-100-year flood, it is estimated that more than a metre of water would enter the kitchen, seating, and operating areas.

The report also noted a lack of detail regarding evacuation procedures for staff and customers, stating that reliance on a future Flood Emergency Response Plan is an inappropriate response to the identified risks.