The issue of extensive land clearing for development was covered by Matthew Kelly in the Newcastle Herald, on May 3rd 2022.

The report highlights Department of Planning and Environment data showing thousands of hectares cleared for urban development and related infrastructure between 2015 and 2019. Lake Macquarie was among the affected local government areas, with 312 hectares recorded as cleared.

These figures are alarming and should be a cause for concern for all community members who care about the environment and our wildlife, as this level of ongoing clearing will have major impacts on the region's biodiversity.

The concern is not only one development site, but the continuing loss and fragmentation of habitat across the region. Link Road Forest forms part of a broader landscape used by native wildlife, including threatened species.

The proposed Eden Estates development would place further pressure on this habitat. It's clear that this project should not proceed because of its likely impact on biodiversity, wildlife movement and the remaining bushland around Link Road Forest.

Original reporting: Matthew Kelly, Newcastle Herald, updated 3 May 2022.