Progress association opposes Patonga plan
The Patonga Progress Association has decided to oppose the draft Plan of Management for Patonga Crown Reserves and Dark Corner Cottages and has decided to call for an extension of the comment period.
"There are recommendations in it that no-one wants, such as the removal of our tennis courts and their placement on Eve Williams Oval to provide more parking for the camping area," according to Association president Mr Dain Simpson.
"There are many controversial proposals in the plan relating to the camping area, creek foreshore, the beach, Patonga Central shops, the oval and Dark Corner.
"The whole thing boils down to a very basic issue in our democratic system: the rights of local residents to determine the land management of their community.
"Either we have a significant say, or we get trampled on."
Mr Simpson said more than 100 people attended a meeting at the Patonga Progress Hall on Saturday, April 6, to discuss the plan.
"One thing's for sure, these recommendations won't happen if the people of Patonga remain as solid and determined as they were today.
"It was a call to arms for locals, including celebrity residents and born and bred fishermen." Mr Simpson said that Gosford Council was proposing to totally change the essence and tranquillity of the sleepy village of Patonga.
He said residents attended the meeting to find out more information about the plan and receive guidance on the steps they should take to "nip this proposal in the bud and oppose the general thrust of the plan".
"There was a unanimous show of hands to seek legal advice, form a sub-committee and fight this with all the might of the passionate folk of Patonga.
"Without asking, $5000 was donated from the Patonga Social and Recreational Club to kick start any action that is required, with residents seeking an extension of the comment deadline to allow full and democratic airing of their views.
"People are concerned and angry that they were never consulted in the formation of the plan."
A larger, public meeting has been scheduled for Saturday, April 20, in the Patonga Progress Hall.
All interested people are invited to attend.
Media Release, 8 Apr 2013
Vanessa Ashcroft, Patonga