Reference panel appointed to review Patonga plan

A Community Reference Panel has been established to review the Draft Plan of Management for various Crown lands at Patonga.

NSW deputy premier Mr Andrew Stoner has said the NSW Trade and Investment Crown Lands department and Gosford Council would work together with the Patonga Beach Progress Association and the community to review the plan.

"This follows the exhibition of the Draft Plan and a total of 236 submissions from the community," Mr Stoner said.

"There were a number of unanticipated and contentious issues in the draft plan that will require further consideration to resolve.

"I am sure these can be resolved through the Community Reference Panel process."

Member for Gosford Mr Chris Holstein said the community was asked to nominate two representatives for the panel.

Local residents Mr Mark Zwan and Mr Dain Simpson were subsequently elected.

"Paul Burgess has been nominated as the reserve community member, while Andrew Minto and Phillip Doughty will represent the Patonga Beach Progress Association," Mr Holstein said.

"The terms of reference for the Community Reference Panel have been reviewed by all the members and finalised for the coming meetings.

"The panel will meet from August for up to six months with the role of advising Crown Lands and Council on issues raised by the community."

The first meeting of the panel was scheduled for Thursday, August 15.

Media release, 14 Aug 2013,

Blake Hardy, Office of Andrew Stoner MP