New plan with domes and bigger temple on exhibition now

The development plans have changed twice since the original application for a two-storey 44-room motel and restaurant was approved for the site nearly three years ago.

A second DA was submitted in 2013 for a modification to the original plan, whereby 16 of the motel rooms would instead be changed to a place of worship with hall and altar big enough for 200 devotees. This was approved two years ago.

Now a further change has been proposed, increasing the size of the temple to hold 300 people, a bigger restaurant now seating 88, parking for 116 and only 18 motel rooms. The external look of the development was changed to include large domes as well.

This last set of modifications was lodged with Council on February 8 and is on public exhibition until March 16.

The development assessment report says the motel and restaurant would be open to the public, though there may be times the devotees may occupy most of the rooms.

The Iskcon Sydney website said it is called the Sri Sri Radha Govindaji temple. The community has been holding fundraising dinners for several years to raise the money.

Hare Krishnas are vegetarians, and are prohibited from gambling or taking intoxicants such as alcohol, drugs, coffee or tobacco. Their devotees value mercy, self-control, truthfulness and cleanliness.

Hawkesbury Council provided a summary of the development’s history, available on its DA Tracking page on its website.

DA0298/12 – 2 storey motel containing 44 rooms and restaurant, approved July 31, 2013.

DA0633/13 – Place of public worship and motel with 28 rooms and restaurant, approved April 17, 2014.

S960018/16 – modification to DA0633/13 approval, internal alterations and external design changes to those approved in 2014. Went on public exhibition February 26, 2016 until March 16.