The Sandon Point community is once again facing up to the threat of the
major development proposal from Stockland and the Anglican Retirement
Villages. The Concept Plan and Stockland’s Project Application are again
being exhibited, from 4th June to 7th July.

Jill Merrin of the Northern Illawarra Residents Action Group, said,
“Despite the Land and Environment Court’s decision that Frank Sartor, the
Minister for Planning’s, approval of the previous Concept Plan was
invalid, he has allowed the developers to go ahead and re-apply for
approval.”

The Minister’s appeal against the decision goes to court on 24th July,
just over two weeks after the exhibition period for the new Plans closes.

“This latest proposal is almost identical to the previous one,” said
resident Helen Wilson. “Over the years there has been a Commission of
Inquiry, which was ignored by the developers and the Minister. The
Commissioners recognised the importance of Sandon Point’s natural and
cultural heritage and recommended a reduced development footprint.”

“Then there was a review of the COI findings ordered by the Minister,
which fairly-well ignored the COI findings.”

The over-200 exhibited documents have not been available in Wollongong or
Bulli libraries until 10 days into the exhibition period, nor have they
been in Thirroul library until 16 days into the exhibition period.
However, the Department of Planning has refused requests for an extension
of time for the public to review the plans and provide responses.

“This State Government has spent a lot of public money on so-called
consultation processes over the years,” said Ms Merrin, “but it is clear
that they really don’t want to hear what people think.”

“Thousands of people have been calling for this area to be protected as a
Regional Park since 2000. It is time the government showed that they care
about the people of NSW, not just the ALP donors.”

The public meeting will be held on Sunday 29th June, at 11.30am, at the
Thirroul Senior Citizens Centre. Members of the ALP, Coalition and Greens
party will be invited to address the meeting.

Contacts:   

Jill Merrin 0422 655 711
Helen Wilson 0428 291 211