NSW Government decides against South Head function and wedding centre

The NSW Government has decided not to proceed with a proposal by Gap Bluff Hospitality to build a commercial function and wedding centre at South Head.

Gap Bluff Hospitality had sought to re-use six buildings within Gap Bluff, South Head, Camp Cove and Green Point precinct in Sydney Harbour National Park.

The former Officers’ Mess and Armoury at Gap Bluff and Watsons Bay would have become function centres, catering for up to 400 people a day and short stay accommodation would have been available at Gap Cottage, Gap Bluff; Green Point Cottage, Green Point; 33 Cliff Street, Watsons Bay; and Constable’s Cottage, Camp Cove.

Environment minister Gabrielle Upton said the decision followed strong community opposition to the proposal. 

“There has been significant community opposition to the proposal and as a result I have decided the proposal should not proceed,” Ms Upton said.

“The community’s voice has been heard loud and clear. In all 1,531 submissions were received, of which 1,505 were opposed to the proposal, with 12 deemed neutral and 14 in support. 

Upton said any future plan for Gap Bluff must include strong collaboration between the National Parks and Wildlife Service and the local community.

The Liberal candidate for Wentworth Dave Sharma said he was "very pleased" to see the development proposal for South Head being rejected.

"It was inconsistent with the heritage, community and recreation values of this iconic and historic site," he said.