CAZ Heise, the Independent candidate for Cowper, is urging the community to forensically study the latest State Government’s Master Plan for the redevelopment of Coffs Harbour’s iconic Jetty Foreshores.
Ms Heise said she was speaking out after hearing concerns from a growing number of residents.
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She said, “I know the redevelopment is a State Government issue, but the Federal Government has made significant investment in the Jetty precinct, and so it is imperative that redevelopment at the Foreshores is endorsed and supported by the local community.
“Over the years people have repeatedly said they don’t want to see large tracts of public land converted into expensive private assets or concrete recreation areas and carparks, and yet that’s what this Master Plan is focused on.
“People have also repeatedly rejected the notion of residential accommodation east of the railway line but the Master Plan incorporates up to 300 units in blocks up to six stories high fronting Jordan Esplanade.”
Ms Heise said she had told Coffs Harbour Mayor Paul Amos that many people were also worried that the State Government is rushing the process so it can cash in on developer interest.
“In my many discussions about the Master Plan I’ve also heard Indigenous elders express concerns about how culturally significant sites will be protected into the future.”
Ms Heise is also advocating for a long term, sustainable and disaster-proof alternative to Waterfall Way.
She said, “It was great to see our State and Federal members and local Mayors coming together in March to discuss solutions to the many problems faced with maintaining the connection between the coast and the tablelands during times of flooding.
“Waterfall Way is an essential link for the community and business and every time it is closed the cost to the local and national economies runs into millions upon millions of dollars.”
Ms Heise said a thorough scientific case study is needed to minimise the risks posed by flooding and landslides, and to engineer long term solutions to ensure freight and people can safely move between the Dorrigo Plateau and the coast.
“Climate modelling suggests we are in for more frequent and severe storm and flood events in the near future, so it is imperative that weather-proofing Waterfall Way and Eastern Dorrigo Way is a national priority and that it is done properly.”
She said if more than $870-million can be promised for a dam at Dungowan near Tamworth that is not supported by business or environmental evidence, weather proofing this vital trade and tourism route should be a no brainer.
Ms Heise said, “I will also advocate for upgrading Armidale Road to ensure freight and people can safely travel between the New England and the Macleay when Waterfall Way is out of action.
“Upgrading both these roads will open up new economic and tourism related opportunities as well as ensure safer travel for local residents, so it’s a win-win solution that should not be put into the too hard basket.”
By Andrew VIVIAN