Forestville’s RSL site is set for a $76.945 million overhaul after planning authorities approved a redevelopment to replace the current club with a new single-level venue beneath 52 retirement units, despite more than 1,100 residents signing a petition against the plan.
Approval and Plans
Development Application DA2024/1303 received the go-ahead for the staged redevelopment of 20 Melwood Avenue, Forestville, on 5 Aug 2025.
Stage One will construct a three-storey mixed-use building with the club on the ground floor and 16 independent living units above, along with a three-level basement. Stage Two will see demolition of the existing club and the addition of three separate buildings containing the remaining 36 units.
Club leaders say the project aims to diversify income streams, modernise amenities, and protect long-term viability. According to the club’s August 2025 statement, the development will be completed without selling any land or giving up local control. The club says it will feature new dining spaces, function rooms, family play areas, and upgraded parking, and will remain open during stage one works.
Concerns From the Community
Opponents, including members who signed a petition tabled to the planning panel, believe the new design will significantly reduce family-friendly outdoor space and limit the size of community gatherings. They argue that the venue will not be able to host major events such as ANZAC Day commemorations in the way it currently does, and that more floor space will be allocated to poker machines.
Other concerns include the relocation of the War Memorial, retirement units overlooking children’s play areas, and fears that design limitations will prevent future expansion. Some members argue that the redevelopment is unnecessary, citing the club’s current profitability and its status as the area’s only large licensed venue, a point not addressed in official planning documents.
Public toilets near the indoor gaming area must be amended to separate male and female facilities, replacing the original unisex layout. It also notes a condition that all outdoor dining areas, excluding alfresco gaming, must be vacant after 10:00 p.m., with a limit of ten smokers in those spaces.
Design refinements were made after consultation with Council, including more outdoor green space and relocating the underground car park entrance to improve traffic flow.
The Vote Ahead
Although planning consent is now in place, the project will not proceed without the approval of club members in a general meeting scheduled for October 2025. An information memorandum will be sent to all members before the vote.
If endorsed by members, Stage One will begin with demolition works and the construction of the new club and first-stage housing. The club has committed to keeping members updated via its project website and maintaining operations throughout stage one to minimise disruption.
Published 15-Aug-2025
