The Link Road Forest Campaign is urging voters to support the four lord mayoral candidates who are unequivocally supporting the proposal to make Link Road Forest a national park.
“Newcastle Council resolved overwhelmingly in December to support Link Road Forest being made a national park. It is imperative that the new lord mayor is unwavering in their support and will champion the push to protect this important forest,” Link Road Forest Campaign spokesperson, Mr Ian McKenzie said.
“Aside from its indisputable environmental value, Link Road Forest offers opportunities for health and recreation benefits for Lower Hunter communities that will be gained by protecting the forest in a way that facilitates public access,” Mr McKenzie said.
“Steve O’Brien (Socialist Alliance), Gavin Morris (independent), Charlotte McCabe (Greens) and Declan Clausen (Labor) responded unequivocally positively to four questions we posed in relation to their support for the national park proposal and what actions they would take to secure the forest’s permanent protection,” Mr McKenzie said.
“I understand the land forms part of a green corridor which is vital for the ongoing survival of many endangered species,” veteran Socialist Alliance candidate Steve O’Brien said.
“I think the broad cross-party and community support for protecting this habitat as a National Park is a powerful story that needs to be told again from the chamber. It would be fitting to repeat this once the community has elected a new lord mayor,” current Deputy and acting lord mayor, Greens’ Charlotte McCabe said.
Former lord mayor Kerridge endorsee, Gavin Morris was clear in his position. “Put simply, this land must not be developed,” he said.
Long-term Labor councillor, Declan Clausen committed to ongoing support. “My record is clear, where land has high environmental value, I will advocate strongly for its protection,” he said.
Independent Milton Caine was personally supportive of retaining the forest but failed to answer the
questions. Liberal candidate, Jenny Barrie did not provide a response.
Further comment:
Ian McKenzie – 0414 682 001
