Wales call to save Veron Rd land

The Liberal Representative for Peats, Ms Debra Wales, has joined the volunteer Bushcare groups to call on Gosford Council to save the last of the Umina Sandplain forest in private ownership from medium density development.

"This land is owned by the Broken Bay Diocese, it is zoned 2(a) single residential and yet we are standing here today to fight against losing a precious piece of forest from being cleared to make way for medium density units," Ms Wales told a rally at the Veron Rd land last Wednesday.

"These SEPP 5 developments are simply backdoor medium density for cheaper land in 2(a) zones.

"People want to know when they buy a home in 2(a) residential areas, they are not going to have units being built next door to them.

"Further, under the State Government Environmental Policy these retirement villages are to have medical services, shopping centre and public transport in close proximity.

"This particular area has none and yet it appears that Gosford City Council may approve the application.

"If Council does not act to save this forest, we will see it cleared to make way for 44 units, private gymnasium and spa, a community centre with craft rooms, heated swimming pool and underground parking.

"But to have to fight to save a precious forest that is listed under the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995 and described by the Scientific Committee as endangered ecological community - Umina Sandplain Woodland - is frustrating in itself.

"Gosford Council should have acted quickly in purchasing this land to bring it into public ownership forever.

"It should not be a question of money or politics.

"It is simply a question of what value do we place on the health and wellbeing of our local neighbourhoods.

"This forest has an abundance of birdlife which thrives in the forest.

"It has a species of trees, which have been identified as an important food source for threatened species such as the Grey-Headed Flying Fox and the Swift Parrot.

"Just as important as caring for endangered species is the integrated planning of our urban areas for preserving our open space and protecting bushland corridors across the Peninsula.

"We have an estimated population of 33,000 people on the Peninsula is one of the most densely population suburbs in the city of Gosford.

"It is imperative that Council protect this forest, for once this land is cleared or even partially developed, it's true value will be lost forever to the community," Ms Wales said.

Press release, August 17 Debra Wales, Liberal Representative for Peats