Norma's Bastion To Be Placed On The Market

Illawarra Mercury

Saturday February 9, 2008

By ALEX ARNOLD

IT was a story that captivated the Illawarra a decade ago - the grandmother that wouldn't budge from her Cliff Rd home for $3 million.

In 1997 Norma Spence went down in Wollongong folklore with her determination to resist all approaches to buy her home, denting plans for a neighbouring $60 million development.

Mrs Spence's decision not to sell played a part in foiling developer John Carson's plans for an international hotel on Cliff Rd.

Mr Carson's LED Projects had purchased five properties in Cliff Rd and two in nearby Corrimal St at a cost of $10 million. He wanted Mrs Spence's land as well but her refusal to sell and growing community and union opposition to his plans forced him to abandon his grand vision.

A dual development, comprising luxury apartments and restaurants, eventually took the place of the hotel.

Last November Mrs Spence passed away and now the house is set to be put on the market.

Already a number of approaches have been made to her family, the real estate community valuing the 92-year-old home at more than $5 million.

Town planner and valuer Terry Wetherall said the $5 million figure was "not unrealistic".

The property has been described as "the jewel of Cliff Rd" and has uninterrupted views over Belmore Basin.

Mrs Spence's son Mark said the family would dearly love to keep the home at No 64, but the decision had been made to sell.

"There is no way that all four children can benefit equally and that is the trick," Mr Spence said.

"It has been a very hard decision, but some tough decisions had to be made."

Mr Spence said the sale process would take place in the next few months and whatever happened to the house, the protection of the neighbouring George Dodd Reserve was a priority.

The land once belonged to Mrs Spence's grandfather George Dodd, who built the house where she moved to when she was just eight months old.

Last Saturday, as was her wish, the family of Mrs Spence scattered her ashes in front of the rock pool opposite her home.

"Some people no doubt believe I'm foolish for not taking the money," Mrs Spence said in 1998.

"But this area has a lot of sentimental value for me and money can't buy that.

"I won't move, not a chance."