No public consultation was undertaken regarding the $4.7 million spend on Minamurra Rainforest Park, as all money spent so far has been on like-for-like refurbishments, with no new functions introduced, the Jamberoo Valley Residents and Ratepayers Association says.
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The JVRRA hosted National Parks and Wildlife spokesmen Kane Weeks and Tony Pinzone at their June 4 general meeting.
A spokesperson for the organisation said they understood that any changes which would involve new activities or functions would go out to public consultation.
"A concept plan was presented for potential accommodation at the old Sports and Recreation site adjacent to the park, which has become incorporated into the park for management purposes," the spokesperson said.
"The site has been prepared to the extent that unused old structures have been demolished and asbestos has been removed, but the concept plan is not yet up for public consultation.
"At present the concept plan includes several tourist cabins, with an on-site reception area for management, and pathways connecting this area to the Rainforest Park.
"Kane and Tony made it clear that they aimed to keep all landscaping and building design as sympathetic as possible, and the developments aim to respect the fragility of the rainforest.
"They also expressed awareness of the difficulty associated with Minnamurra Falls Road catering for increased traffic, especially at night."
Several members of the audience at the meeting were concerned about the commercialisation of national parks, and how that may impact their ability to protect delicate ecosystems, such as the Minamurra rainforest.
