I strongly object to this proposal.

To the attention of Fadi Shakir
Dear sir
My name is Vitek Czernuszyn
I live at 39 Oxley St Berrima
I write to you to vehemently oppose the proposed development of the Berrima jail.
Applicant number SSD6687472

I have to begin by voicing my amazement that anyone would so blatantly show absolute disregard for some of the burning issues around this development.
The physical desecration of this historic site, by cutting into convict built walls, building obliterating structures all around it, and subterranean excavation of a car park - just the name a few, shows to what degree the developers are completely ignoring its heritage importance.
This is a major part of Australian history that’s about to be destroyed, and by changing the name to Berrima Quarters, it will be permanently expunged from the memory of future generations

The fact that they are excavating below the water line to build the car park in areas that previously had Iberian zoning, completely ignoring the impact that this will have on surrounding wildlife, shows equal disregard to any environmental issues.
The Wingecarribee river is recognised as a truly significant protected habitat for several species, including the platypus.
Doesn’t that mean anything?

My third objection, though I have many more, is that the precedent of three story structures will mean that other developers can do likewise thereby totally altering the spirit of this village. Surely in an age of rapid development a historic gem like Berrima Village should be protected- there are not many left.
I am by no means opposed to the re-usage of the jail. But it should be done with genuine regard, not just for the structure itself, but also for the expectation of the community that lives around it – and that’s not just Berrima or even the southern Highlands, t’s every person that cares about our history.
How can you allow this ?
Vitek Czernuszyn

I wish to formally express my strong objection to the proposed construction of a new hotel in Berrima. Berrima is a historic village, and all previous developments have been undertaken in accordance with strict heritage guidelines. The proposed hotel, which is to be attached to the old prison, appears inconsistent with these guidelines. Its construction would significantly alter the character and aesthetic of the village, set a concerning precedent for future developments, and compromise the historical integrity that defines Berrima.
I believe there are alternative ways to conserve and repurpose the historic gaol without attaching a modern commercial structure that diminishes its heritage value.
In addition, I am deeply concerned about the environmental impact this project may have on the local ecosystem along the riverbank. This area is home to a variety of native species, including platypus, water dragons, and numerous other forms of wildlife. The platypus, which is classified as a threatened species in Australia, relies on this habitat for breeding and survival. It is imperative that this sensitive environment not be disrupted or destroyed for commercial gain.
For these reasons, I respectfully urge that the proposal be reconsidered to ensure both the preservation of Berrima’s unique heritage and the protection of its natural environment.

I object to the proposal insofar as the development is designed primarily as a 60-suite luxury visitor hotel and event complex, rather than being structured as a development that genuinely serves the local community of Berrima and Southern Highlands region.

There is little in the design package that ensures affordable access, local-use spaces, or community integration. The rhetoric of “high quality” and “wedding/event venue” suggests exclusivity, rather than inclusive community access and the public domain spaces aren't considerate of community needs, they are instead features of the 'high end' accommodation that won't add value to the every day needs of the community. A 60-suite hotel plus signature restaurant/bar and event/wedding spaces/spa is purely targeted at overnight tourists and high‐end functions and completely ignores the needs of local families, residents and everyday community needs.

I object further to the architectural/design aspects of the proposal which state a 60-suite accommodation building of two and three-storey sections, located outside the historic gaol walls, with a resort/hospitality aesthetic. Whilst the applicant claims the building will be ‘sympathetic to the local heritage context’, the publicly available documentation does not provide sufficient detail to verify that façade materials, glazing, metal elements and massing will genuinely integrate with the sandstone village and the rural setting. They in fact propose stark contrasts to the historic materials, suggesting modern construction methods and materials in stead of traditional methods and materials. Not to mention the car park will be straight off the main street and a major eyesore to the nature currently there. The proposed building is of a scale and style that risks becoming an eyesore in the historic village of Berrima and undermining the character and heritage value of the precinct.

I ask that the Department require more rigorous conditions/guarantees around materials, scale, view analyses etc - and require a binding community access and usage plan as a condition of consent to ensure that the development genuinely reflects and supports the local village character rather than just being a destination hotel for visitors.

I am writing to formally object to the proposed redevelopment of Berrima Gaol by Blue Sox Developments, currently on public exhibition as a State Significant Development.

Environmental and Safety Concerns
During the construction phase, this project will inevitably generate significant noise pollution and pose safety risks due to the volume of heavy machinery and large-scale vehicles required. The narrow roads and heritage layout of Berrima are not designed to accommodate such traffic, raising serious concerns about pedestrian safety and disruption to daily life, especially local business.
I am also deeply concerned about the potential impact on the local waterways, which provide habitat for protected and vulnerable species. The ecological sensitivity of the area demands careful stewardship, and the scale of this development risks irreversible damage to these natural systems.

Heritage and Visual Impact
The current design is visually incongruent with the historic character of Berrima Village. The proposed hotel and entertainment precinct do not reflect the architectural integrity or aesthetic values of the surrounding heritage buildings. Berrima Gaol itself is a unique and historically significant structure — one of the oldest surviving colonial-era prisons in Australia. It should be considered for heritage listing and repurposed in a way that honours its cultural legacy, rather than being transformed into a commercial venue that erodes its historical identity.

Community and Cultural Integrity
Berrima is a vibrant and close-knit community with a strong sense of place. The village thrives on its heritage charm, local businesses, and peaceful atmosphere. Introducing a large-scale entertainment and hospitality complex threatens to undermine the very qualities that make Berrima special. The proposed development prioritizes tourism and commercial gain over the needs and values of local residents.

Conclusion
I urge the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure to reject this proposal in its current form. A more thoughtful, community-led approach should be considered — one that protects Berrima’s heritage, respects its environment, and enhances its unique character rather than diluting it.

I fully support the project. It will be an asset to the Southern Highlands.

Please refer to the attached documents.