Chamber concern about dirty water

The Peninsula Chamber of Commerce has voiced its concern over the ongoing dirty water issue on the Peninsula, despite promises of funding by the Federal Government to improve water quality.

"It is unacceptable that Peninsula businesses and residents should continually experience dirty water whenever they turn on a tap," Chamber president Mr Matthew Wales said.

"This problem has been going on for almost five years with no end in sight.

"Despite the Federal Government promises of funding, it will be many months before businesses can confident that water quality is consistent.

"We have dry cleaners who have to wash garments three times to get them clean, restaurants that have to use bottled water to serve customers, tourist operators who cannot fill baths and spas for fear of brown water and residents who have to stare in disgust at suspended sediment in their glass of water."

Mr Wales said the Chamber was demanding a clear timetable from Gosford Council for the completion of mains repairs and flushing.

"Here we are trying to make the Peninsula a destination for visitors and holiday makers and we can't even guarantee them clean drinking water," Mr Wales said.

"Council need to give the business community some very clear undertakings as to when this problem will be fixed.

"They deserve nothing less.

"After all, we are ones paying water rates and excess water bills".

Press release, 23 Oct 2007 Matthew Wales, Peninsula Chamber of Commerce