Rally to save bush block

A rally to save bushland on the corner of Veron Rd and Hillview St, Woy Woy, attracted about 70 people on Sunday, May 30.

The meeting organised by the Central Coast branch of the Australian Conservation Foundation attracted several community activists, a councillor and a political candidate.

Cr Chris Holstein, Federal Labor candidate for Robertson, Ms Trish Moran, community activist Mr Ed James, Citizen of the Year Ms Heather McKenzie and Save Our Suburbs secretary Mr Bryan Ellis were among those who joined Australian Conservation Foundation branch president Mr John Wiggin and secretary Mr Mark Ellis and others at the meeting outside the property.

Mark Ellis said the placement of this parcel of land under public ownership would help protect a green corridor that could remain intact for future generations to view and enjoy.

Public ownership would also provide the opportunity for recreational usage of the land, he said.

Save Our Suburbs representative Bryan Ellis agreed, saying he believed the land should be in public ownership.

Citizen of the year Heather McKenzie has also expressed her concern over the fate of the land.

Community activist Ed James wrote to Peninsula News: "The abundant bird life is an integral part of an ecosystem of rare flora and fauna scattered in small enclaves throughout the Woy Woy Peninsula.

"The remnants of the wooded sand plain should be fully protected and be provided for public open space."

Cr Terri Latella enquired at Council as to the fate of the development nearly a month ago and Gosford Council has passed a motion of urgency to enter into discussions with the owner to purchase the land.

Former councillor and Liberal party representative for Peats, Ms Debra Wales, has also called for the land to be bought by Council.

"At a time when the Peninsula is under enormous pressure from over-development, we should be ensuring that highly-sensitive land is brought under public ownership wherever possible," she said.

"This is especially the case when we actually have money available with which to negotiate a purchase.

"Gosford Council should be entering into serious negotiations with the Broken Bay Diocese immediately so as to save the Hillview St site.

"We have the money. Let's put it to the use which it was intended."

Alison Branley, June 9