Kiama MP Gareth Ward has launched a petition to oppose development at Blowhole Point, after plans to remove the cabins and build shops and restaurants into the hill were revealed.
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The plans were projected into the public arena last week via the Kiama Community Facebook page.
Cr Matt Brown spruiked the idea, printed in the Kiama Tourism Opportunities report, released in council’s agenda on July 17.
Mr Ward said he had viewed the Tourism Opportunities document and was deeply concerned that the document did not contain proposals for new “restaurants and shops” as was outlined by Cr Brown.
“As a Councillor and as a State MP, I have always been opposed to over-development that detracts from the local environment and village character that motivates so many to call our region home,” he said.
“Blowhole Point is an iconic tourist site. Given that the land in question in owned by the people of NSW, as their representative I will not support the over-development of Blowhole Point.
Mr Ward said “some local representatives appeared to be totally out of touch” with the community, and on July 23 launched a community petition to demonstrate opposition to the plan.
“The community has not been consulted about further development of Blowhole Point. The claim that the community supports such plans is simply not true,” Mr Ward said.
“Whilst I support balanced and sensible development, Blowhole Point is a tourist icon and loved by locals. Perhaps Local Government Councillors supportive of over-development could turn their attention to the renovation of existing assets or the beautification of the harbour precinct before letting the developers rush-in without community consultation.”
Mr Ward said the petition would provide a good indication of where the community stands on the matter.
“As the local MP, I want to give a voice to people on this issue because the land in question is the property of the people of our community and our state,” he said.
“There will be no over-development of Blowhole Point whilst ever I am the local MP. If locals want Kiama to turn into Noosa – they’ll have to get themselves an MP that supports this level of development because this isn’t my vision for our community.”
The petition can be collected from Mr Ward’s office in Kiama or signed online at www.garethwardmp.com.au.
