Kiama Council may have to wear the cost of a mistake in the construction of the new Gerringong Community Centre - but councillors believe the trust of the community is worth it.
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The architect of the new community centre submitted an application to increase the height of the northernmost building from 9.04m to 10.35m, a variation 21.7 per cent greater than the allowable height restriction of 8.5 metres for an R2 low density zone.
The application was submitted after the structure was erected, to the dismay of neighbouring residents.
However, at its June 23 meeting, the council voted to reject the application, despite the potential cost.
Councillor Andrew Sloan said the council had to "set the standard".
"We can't be hypocrites," he said.
"It is very embarassing for us all to be in this position, and it is going to be costly."
Councillor Neil Reilly said he had a greater understanding of how residents in similar situations must feel.
The council will seek to recover the cost of the rebuild from the architect.