What century are we living in? Is it really the case that Strathbogie Shire has endorsed a developer proposal to destroy 51 century-old eucalypts to advance a lifestyle or retirement village proposal near the lake?
I thought the battle to save trees within development proposals so as to enhance the environment, preserve the trees and protect habitat for birds and native animals had been fought and largely agreed in the 1980s.
The developer in question has been active in this Nagambie location for over 15 years, winning approval for heavily-modified plans in 2008. Since that time, legislation is much stronger for the protection of native trees. Surely the Shire Councillors should re-consider any 2008 permit in the light of current regulations and community expectations.
It would also be hoped that planning capability has improved across this time period, to come up with a design which makes the magnificent trees a feature of the proposed village, not a target for bulldozers.
I would issue two appeals. Firstly an appeal to common sense and community interests. Secondly an appeal to Councillors to put common sense and community interests ahead of unchecked and unrestricted development. How do readers think my appeals will go?
Alan McLean
Kirwans Bridge
