A REQUEST for a sewage caravan/campervan dump point at the northern end of Bombo Beach has been rejected by Kiama councillors, because of the belief it would increase the illegal camping in the area.
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As reported by the Kiama Independent in April, the holiday season resulted in an unusually large influx of campers at the northern end of Bombo beach. At the time residents took to social media to vent frustrations about the tourists.
In April, a Kiama Council spokesperson said the land was zoned E2 Environmental Conservation and owned by Sydney Water.
"E2 zoned land does not allow use of the land as a designated camping ground," the spokesperson said.
A report to the May council meeting said camping at Bombo Beach, particularly last Christmas, increased dramatically and was the subject of complaints.
The council report was provided in response to a request by Councillor Warren Steel at the February meeting to investigate the installation of a sewage dump point.
"Council has received numerous complaints from local residents about the impact of camping including disturbance to local residents, fires, noise, scattering of rubbish, condition of amenities and restricted local access to parking," the report said.
"In addition, council's own cleaning staff have also reported additional cleaning costs associated with litter collection and amenities cleaning.
"The installation of a sewer dump point is expected to increase the use of the area for camping."
A sewage dump point was provided at Kevin Walsh Oval, Jamberoo, which according to the council has increased camping at this location.
"While this is understood to have a positive impact on the local economy there have been a number of issues around the expectation of the provision of facilities such as toilets and showers."
Sewage dump points are also provided at the council's Holiday Parks at Kendalls Beach, Surf Beach and Seven Mile Beach for paying guests.
"Given the above restrictions and issues which apply to Bombo Beach and the increasing demand for this type of camping from the travelling public, it is recommended that the council not proceed with the installation of a sewer dump point at Bombo Beach but investigate the provision of a suitable location for an additional primitive camping site which is removed from the coastal zone and commercial and residential areas of Kiama," the council's report stated.
Cr Steel said he had since changed his mind.
"I didn't realise so many people would be against this . . . I thought it was a good idea at the time, but if the people don't want it you have to be pragmatic," he said.
The cost of installing a dump point, associated water supply and backflow prevention valves was estimated at $6900.