A development application, DA42661/2012, was lodged in 2012 to redevelop the Historic Avoca Beach Theatre into a 5 screen cinema multiplex plus 5 luxury units, plus a cafe and gallery. The size and scale of this redevelopment is totally out of character with this popular family beach area of Avoca. The proposed floor space ratio and height exceed the current zoning. Amazingly, this DA provides NO ON-SITE PARKING for potentially hundreds of extra patrons. The theatre is only 100 metres from the beachfront and parking for beachgoers is already at capacity. Planned activities such as weddings, church services (mentioned in the DA) and other functions would create traffic and parking chaos on peak beach days. A potential solution we don't want is for the limited public green space of South End Park across from the theatre to be turned into a permanent parking lot. The heritage values of our beloved theatre will be lost forever with this huge modern development. It will set a precedent that will change the nature of our beautiful beach village forever. Avoca does not want or need a Hoyts-by-the-Sea or any developments over 3 storeys.

Although the DA was rejected by Gosford Council in June 2015 on 7 major issues, the developers have now taken their fight to the Land and Environment Court. Despite some alterations, it's still too big. No on-site parking has been provided for patrons. Public green space is still under threat. Heritage values gone!

Please join our Facebook Page, "Say No to the Overdevelopment of Avoca Beach Theatre" (which has over 1200 supporters), for updates on important upcoming meetings. https://www.facebook.com/pages/Say-No-to-the-Overdevelopment-of-Avoca-Beach-Theatre/499418146755053

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