I generally support the proposal with the further comment that I am undecided about the "extra" doorway cutting in the front sandstone wall. I understand the usage of a proposed doorway but would prefer no cutting of the front wall. If this was to proceed, my preference would be the swinging option.

I wish to express my support for the plan to redevelop Berrima Gaol into a hotel and entertainment precinct. The site has been largely unused, and this initiative presents an exciting opportunity to breathe new life into it while respecting its historic character.

This project will benefit the community by attracting visitors, creating employment opportunities, supporting local businesses, and providing a vibrant space for people to gather and enjoy. Transforming this dormant heritage site into an active destination will have positive impacts across the region.

I wholeheartedly support this proposal and believe it will be a significant step forward for Berrima and the wider Southern Highlands.

As a tour operator in the Southern Highlands for the last 8 years, a resident of 16 years and enjoying visits to the area since the age of 5, I have seen the impact of it's change and growing popularity over the last six decades. It is a magnificent area in which to live and wonderful to visit, being so accessible from both Sydney and Canberra. My wife and I have attended the local information days put on by the developers of the Old Berrima Gaol and examined the plans and architects drawings and renderings extensively. Whilst Berrima is a small village with a compact 'old town centre', it is a very popular destination for day visitors and is often bustling with people, particularly of a weekend. In both our views, the proposed development of the Gaol treats the history of the site with sympathy, whilst allowing for the modernity required to make this enterprise an attractive destination for both day visitors and guests of the hotel. The plan for adequate parking (done attractively), and the proposed transformation of the historic buildings are, in our view, nothing but a positive enhancement of this now disused prison and we hope that this project sees the light of day sooner rather than later.

I am aware of the proposed hotel development as my mother is a resident of Berrima.
As a frequent visitor to the town I feel lucky to enjoy the rich colonial history of our country represented through the architecture of the town. The Berrima gaol and courthouse being the centrepiece of this history. My objections to the proposed development within the gaol are:
• changes to the architecture of a significant building
• lack of public access to a significant historical building
• over-development of the site

As an environmental scientist my objections are on the impact the development will have on the riparian integrity of the Berrima River. The river is a beautiful feature of the town. Its amazing that it supports such a diversity of flora and fauna so close to an urban area. Its a privilege for us all to be able to enjoy its amenity, however its health is severely impacted by development. It is critical that any future development has zero impact on the riparian zone. With reference to the document ‘Review of riparian vegetation significance adjoining Berrima Gaol’ ( Dr Steven Douglas 2025) my environmental objections of the proposed development are:
• Significant works within the 50m buffer zone
• Poor maintenance of the gaol area currently within the 50m buffer zone
Put simply, the health of the Berrima river is far more important than the proposed development. I don’t object to sensible use of the space, but this proposal is not suitable.

I object to the project for the following reasons:

• the Berrima Gaol is a great historical significance. Its conservation and meaningful interpretation should guide and determine its adaptive re-use.

• there should be no large opening in the wall at the front of the gaol and particularly in close proximity to the gate. The interpretation of the complex as a gaol will be compromised if this aspect of the project is approved.

• I am deeply concerned that the biodiversity values of the river corridor may be impacted by the development .

See Attachment

Thank you for the opportunity to comment. Please see attached file.I object to this development, which in my opinion will destroy the character of the village that makes it a regular stop on my frequent travels between Sydney and Canberra.