It's taken two years, hundreds of submissions and a professionally run volunteer campaign to Save Thirroul Village. 

Finally, on October 19 community campaigners learnt their voices had been heard – the Land and Environment Court has dismissed the appeal to redevelop Thirroul Plaza.

Save Thirroul Village statement

After a two-year campaign, Save Thirroul Village are delighted by today's ruling in the Land and Environment Court (LEC) rejecting the proposal to redevelop Thirroul Plaza.

This decision recognises the significant issues inherit in the proposal and validates the long-held concerns of Wollongong City Council, subject matter experts and the local community.

Louise Wellington of Save Thirroul Village said: "This win is representative of more than just this DA. It feels like for the first time in a long time, the community voice and common sense are being considered with regards to the changing face of Thirroul village."

“Our community saw an opportunity to have a say on the place where they live and they jumped in wholeheartedly. How incredible it is for everyone to see their voices heard.”

We would like to congratulate Wollongong City Council and their solicitors for putting forward a powerful defence and for engaging with the community throughout this process.

We would like to thank the local media and community organisations who have worked to keep the community informed, notably ABC Illawarra, the Illawarra Mercury and 2515 Magazine.

Much of this success is owed to our amazing local community who have stayed engaged during this protracted and at times, frustrating process. We have always been proud to represent your voice in this matter and we remain awed by your tireless campaigning and unrelenting dedication to our unique village.

We are hopeful this decision represents a change in the way proposals are considered for Thirroul. An approach which considers the needs of the many above the wants of the few is a step in the right direction and one which we and the community welcome.

Wollongong City Council statement

A spokesperson for Council said: “Wollongong City Council has welcomed the judgement by the Land and Environment Court to dismiss the development proposed for a central site in Thirroul village.

"Over the coming days we will be reviewing closely the judgement by Commissioner Dickson. In our initial read of the document we note her emphasis that the built form of the development was incompatible with the desired future character of Thirroul Village Centre as detailed in Council’s planning controls, and that she viewed it would have a detrimental impact on the heritage significance of the Illawarra Escarpment Heritage Conservation Area.

"We know this judgement will be welcomed by many in our community who advocated against the proposed development. This decision will be regarded as positive step and reflects the impact a proactive and engaged community can have on decision-making.’’

Find the court's full ruling on the NSW Caselaw website