Freewater receives objections in 'hundreds'

Greens Cr Peter Freewater has reported that he has received hundreds of objections against the draft Local Environment Plan to change the zoning of environmentally sensitive lands in within the Gosford Local Government Area.

Cr Freewater said he would be joined by fellow Greens Cr Terri Latella in fighting to have these lands properly zoned for conservation.

"The community is united in their rejection of the draft Local Environment Plan currently on exhibition.

"I have received hundreds of objections to plans to change the zoning of environmentally sensitive lands to a recreational zoning.

"Objections have been received by all environmental groups as well as hundreds of people in the general community.

"This zoning will effectively allow a host of inappropriate developments to occur on lands specifically set aside to protect threatened species in the Gosford Local Government area.

"A recreation zoning will leave the door wide open for council to clear these lands for sporting venues or other recreational activities.

"Council may not wish to clear the land at this moment but times will change as population growth continues.

"The only way to ensure their ongoing protection is to lock these nature reserves up using the E2 conservation zoning as recommended by the Department of Environment and Climate Change.

"The community is absolutely correct - these lands must be given the highest level of protection possible and zoned E2 for environmental conservation.

"I applaud the community for taking the time to review and understand the DLEP and for rejecting plans to use a recreation zoning for sensitive environmental lands.

"Now that we have been able to extend the community consultation period until May 5, I hope that more people will take the opportunity to have their say."

Press release, 8 Apr 2010 Cr Peter Freewater, Gosford Council