The geotechnical research announced as “Newcastle rail line truncation work begins” highlights the lack of proper planning by the NSW Government. (Newcastle Herald – Matt Carr 18/07/14)
THIS GEOTECHNICAL RESEARCH IS PRELIMINARY WORK THAT SHOULD HAVE BEEN DONE TWO YEARS AGO BEFORE ANY DECISION WAS MADE.
Gladys Berejiklian is only now beginning some of the research that should have been undertaken by the Planning Department prior to Mr Hazzard’s hasty decision to truncate the rail line. Ms Berejiklian has been left holding the baby. The normal planning processes were totally absent and now she is trying to pretend otherwise: As Minister for the Hunter she needs to look at this region’s needs and opinions.
THE HORSE IS TRYING TO CATCH UP TO THE CART WHICH IS ALREADY AT THE BOTTOM OF THE HILL AND TIPPING OVER!
Other research that should have occurred prior to such a major decision include a study of traffic implications revealing the effects of the CLOSURE OF RAILWAY STREET CROSSING, as well as the overcrowding of Hunter and Scott Streets – with trams, bikes and cars, the loss of car parking spaces –( hundreds!), the stoppage of all bus services at Wickham and/or Marketown the loss of the free bus and disconnecting Stockton Ferry. There should have been a cost/benefit analysis, environmental studies, transparency as to the real reason for the decision (development on the corridor!) AND TRUE COMMUNITY CONSULTATION.
Normal planning procedures and transparency have been absent from decisions and announcements accompanying the Newcastle Urban Renewal Strategy (NURS), which was grossly altered to pander to developers, the Government making announcements without planning to placate the Property Council and other vested interest groups.
THIS DECISION NEEDS TO BE REVOKED AS IT IS A SCANDALOUS WASTE OF PUBLIC MONEY TO DISADVANTAGE THE ENTIRE HUNTER REGION, AN ACT OF VANDALISM THAT WILL BE A CRUCIAL ISSUE AT THE NEXT ELECTION.
For further information or comment please contact:-
Joan Dawson
President Save Our Rail NSW Inc
Mobile 0408 618 198