Federal Government Should Protect Sustainable Jobs on Central Coast
Central Coast Greens call on Lucy Wicks to act to create and protect real, sustainable tourism jobs on the Central Coast by stepping in to stop the expansion of the Calga sand-quarry which threatens the viability of neighbouring tourism and farming businesses.
“We have seen this week stories about tourists by-passing the Central Coast, and the Federal Government spending money it can’t afford in order to build an office block in the wrong place for relocated jobs.” said Central Coast Greens spokesperson for planning and environment, Kate da Costa.
“If the Federal Government and Lucy Wicks, holder of a very marginal seat, want to create new jobs, they would step in to stop the expansion of the Calga sand-quarry which threatens our water security and neighbouring tourist businesses like the Australian Wildlife Walkabout Park. Walkabout has permission to expand its ecotourism program – which would create long-term, sustainable jobs for locals – but this would not be possible if the quarry expands”
Central Coast Greens welcome news of 600 jobs being relocated from Canberra to Gosford, but stand with the community against the building of an office block on the waterfront space once occupied by Gosford Public School. The Greens believe that community wishes for an arts and culture precinct have been disregarded by both state and federal government.
“Yet again, Gosford will suffer from governments without vision. Aiming low – boring office blocks and relocated jobs not new ones – is yet again the order of the day” said Kate da Costa.
The Central Coast Greens are also aware that Hanson, new owners of the Calga quarry and local custodians are currently in negotiations. We are hopeful that these will be successful, but if talks break down or the Land and Environment Court finds against the communities wishes, we call on Lucy Wicks to protect our water security and not put future tourism and job creation at risk.
CENTRAL COAST GREENS
MEDIA RELEASE: 30 October 2015
Secretary@centralcoast.nsw.greens.org.au