Where my vote will go

I would like to reply to Brad Morris (Peninsula News, November 12).

No, I am not a Liberal or Labour voter. I am a "fence sitter".

Firstly, the current Federal Liberal incumbent, Jim Lloyd, badgered the Federal Treasurer Peter Costello for four years and was successful in getting $83 million to widen the F3 Expressway.

This work is currently being done and parts have already been completed.

Secondly, the plans to extend a road from the F3 Expressway to the Woy Woy Peninsula was mooted by a then Labour State Government many years ago.

It was pidgeon-holed as being too costly and not needed.

I am not defending the reputation of the Federal Member, only to say "he has left no stone unturned to get the funding for this project".

However, before any sort of business proposal is approved, a feasibility study is necessary to ensure every facet of building such a complex road system is needed, together with the funds to bring it into being.

The banks call it a "business plan".

If you do not have one, forget it, you will get no funds.

Finally, one of the biggest problems facing the Central Coast and our Peninsula is water.

We are still on schedule four restrictions.

Many years ago, funds for a pipeline connection from dams up north to the Mangrove Dam were given to Councils who controlled the water supply.

However, this money was redirected to other projects and the pipeline never eventuated.

Then the drought hit us like a bomb.

Councils controlling our water supply increased more and more water restrictions but still no pipeline.

The Federal Member for Robertson, Jim Lloyd again approached the Federal Government.

As Minister for the Central Coast, he again persuaded the Federal Treasurer to grant funds for a pipeline from Mardi to Mangrove Dams.

The pipeline is at last becoming a reality, not a pipedream.

I know where my vote will go this time!

Brian Belcher Umina Beach