ACF branch calls for Austin Butler sale to be rescinded
The Central Coast branch of the Australian Conservation Foundation has called on Central Coast Council to heed the information in the national State of the Environment Report, released on July 19, and rescind its planned sale of land at Austin Butler, Woy Woy.
Branch president Mr Mark Ellis said the report stated that "green and blue spaces" were considered "critical urban infrastructure" and that urban planners and governments should be increasing the extent of green spaces.
"Urban fragments of trees and land on Austin Butler Avenue must be retained as open space for nature and humans to coexist," said Mr Ellis.
"The release of the national state of the environment report highlights the failure to protect our environment.
"It is evident through this report the urgency to reduce urban heat, increase open space, and provide areas for trees and wildlife in urban settings."
He said the section of the report titled "Bringing nature and green back" highlighted the growing recognition of the health and wellbeing benefits of being close to green spaces and biodiversity.
"Throughout this report, the urgency to reduce urban heat, increase open space, and provide spaces for trees and wildlife in urban settings is clear.
"Council has a chance to protect nature, reduce urban heat and keep open spaces by protecting the land at Austin Butler Ave from development," Mr Ellis said.
"Considering the financial position of the Council is regarded as much better, and the deficit of open space and tree canopy on the Woy Woy Peninsula continues, we request the Council cease any process of rezoning and withdraw the land from sale."
Mr Ellis said the council should not be expanding the commercial area of Woy Woy.
"At the moment, the compact city philosophy still holds as predominant planning principle to engage with climate change and urban development across urban design, transport, liveability and services for communities."
SOURCE:
Media release, 22 Jul 2022
Mark Ellis, ACF Central Coast