The residents of outer South Western Sydney deserve better than wall to wall houses and to be a political football passed between Liberal and Labor, says the independent MP Judy Hannan.
In a scathing attack over the lack of planning for giant residential developments in Wilton and Appin, the member for Wollondilly says the failures of the former Liberal Government should not be an excuse for the Minns Government to let things continue the way they were.
The proposed developments for 40,000 new homes were approved by the former planning minister, but Ms Hannan wants to see the new government act on her concerns over lack of infrastructure and other issues.
She points out that the estimated infrastructure costs are over $2.5 billion, excluding drinking water and wastewater.
Developer contributions would raise around $528 million, far short of what would be required for proper infrastructure.
“As far as I know there is no government ownership of secret gooses to lay golden eggs, so where is the money going to come from,’’ Ms Hannan said.
Ms Hannan has met with the current minister for planning and written to Premier Chris Minns and other ministers, including roads, health, education, emergency services, environment, roads, transport, water and local government.
“I look forward to the meetings with each to discuss this as a matter of urgency,’’ says Ms Hannan.
“Alarmingly to date there is no infrastructure planned, including no schools, no health facilities and a subpar sewer treatment service.
“There was going to be a possible health care centre attached to the commercial site but that too is now at risk.’’
Ms Hannan says the housing developments would also risk the viability of mining jobs.
“This affects the prospects of job growth and the community centres in the growth areas,’’ she said.
“So much for our promised one job for one house that was fought for by myself and the councillors during the 2012 to 2016 term.’’
