Revised concepts have been submitted for an integrated Buddhist tourist and residential project complete with Shaolin Kung Fu Academy on the NSW South Coast.

Plans for the Shaolin Village in the Shoalhaven, have progressed to the State’s Independent Planning Assessment Commission.

Designed by Sydney-based Conybeare Morrison architects, the development has been on the table since 2008 and has already been assessed by the Department of Planning & Environment.

The site is on the former Comberton Grange homestead in Falls Creek, accessed from the Princes Highway. It comprises approximately 1,248ha of land which includes a former quarry and a creek.

The masterplan (see attached) accommodates a Buddhist Temple Sanctuary, A Kung-Fu Academy, Agricultural and herbal farm, a 500 bed 4 star hotel, residential developments, small retail, commercial, professional and community services centre a 27 hole golf course and clubhouse.

It is anticipated that the construction of the development will be over a 5-10 year period and, according to the project application, will be delivered in two stages.

The Buddhist Temple Sanctuary will be constructed in the first stage, and will consist of a traditionally designed religious walled complex comprising temples, pagodas, meditation and multicultural halls, a Kung-Fu Academy for up to 500 students, library, dining hall and residential accommodation for the Abbot and monks arranged around a series of courtyards.

Associated non-sectarian public facilities are to be located within the sanctuary comprising a 1500 seat convention centre, a 1000 seat amphitheatre, cultural centre and public amenities.

The sanctuary is to be set within a landscaped setting of natural and indigenous forest. Several of the main temple buildings exceed 13m in height.

Following the Temple development, stage two will consist of the residential components of the development. These include a 500 bed 4 star hotel with ancillary rooms for staff accommodation (up to 30 rooms); up to 300 dwellings comprising: - self-contained independent living villas/ adaptable housing for the aged; and detached and medium density residential developments.

Should the project be approved by the PAC, construction will still require Development Approval from Shoalhaven Council.

Shoalhaven City Council Planning Department says they are expecting a response to the assessment on 18 August.

Images: Artist Impressions: South Coast Register. Masterplan and Site Section: NSW Planning and Environment website

Nathan Johnson

Traditionally-designed-$370-million-Shaolin-Buddhi-1732031600.png

Let’s connect!