The community’s concern with the state of the historic seaward gateway to the Shoalhaven was discussed by council’s crown reserve, works and community operations committee on Tuesday.

Council currently maintains a walking track and viewing platforms and landscaped areas at the headland.

Councillors considered ways to have the headland and light-

house turned into a major tourist drawcard.

Cr Jack Kerr said there were lighthouse heritage groups interested in maintaining the lighthouse.

“They say they would come in if vegetation was cleared so you could see the lighthouse, but at the moment you can’t see it and it is a hotspot for vandalism,”

he said.

Cr Kerr also asked for a report on addressing the level of break-ins at the Crookhaven carpark.

City services director John Wells said the headland had once been “as bald as a badger”.

“It was groomed but when Maritime handed ownership of the land over to the Crown it naturally revegetated,” he said.

Mr Wells said council was not permitted to clear the land, which is covered in a combination of native and introduced vegetation.

Mayor Greg Watson suggested council apply to the relevant authorities to have the site restored to its heritage or

“badger look”.

Cr Green said the site was the going to waste.

“I think it’s a brilliant spot, we should do something with it,” he said.

Cr Ward asked council again write the Member for South Coast Shelley Hancock asking her to spearhead a campaign to have the lighthouse restored.

“This is one of the most beautiful vistas in the Shoalhaven, yet it’s in a dreadful state,”

he said.

Council is currently awaiting a reply from the Lands Minister and State Members to a request for the lighthouse to be restored.

A full meeting of council on Tuesday, May 27, will decide how council will proceed with any upgrade of the headland.