Rann Labor fails Mount Barker

Today I have written to all residents in the District Council of Mount Barker urging themto ensure their voice is heard by the Rann Labor Government in relation to their proposed amendment to the Mount Barker Development Plan.

The proposed amendment to the Development Plan for Mount Barker fails because it appears to have given no consideration to the future sustainability of the Adelaide Hills region.

This amendment proposes to release some 1,310 hectares of land for development in Nairne and Mount Barker, resulting in the building of 7,000 extra houses.

I am also concerned this amendment has set expansion targets without considering key infrastructure needs including a second freeway interchange for Mount Barker, investment in wastewater management, black spots funding for local roads and improved recreation facilities.

It is clear the Rann Labor Government has failed to consider effective methods of expansion to ensure our prime agricultural land is not needlessly lost due to over-development.

I believe further consideration must also be given to the sustainability of the State Government’s proposed population growth targets.

Australia faces a serious challenge in the coming years to ensure we have a safe, secure and sufficient food supply. It is therefore important we do not allow the Rann Labor Government overdevelop our most productive land.

I am very concerned the Rann Labor Government intends to push through this amendment without listening to the many concerns within the Mount Barker community.

I will be making a submission on the proposed amendment and making these points, I urge fellow residents to do the same.