In a wide-ranging meeting, the October meeting of Neighbourhood Forum 5, which captures central Wollongong and suburbs, has raised concerns about safety for motorists and pedestrians and requests for the support of the new Council to resolve outstanding issues.
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The Forum has called on Wollongong Council to substantially increase signage on busy shared footpaths and cycleways, including on the busy Blue Mile, because of the danger to pedestrians.
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Also discussed were the significant proposed roadworks at the Mount Ousley Interchange that were amended earlier this year without consultation. NF5 has identified nine separate safety concerns with the plans as they currently stand.
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Following the Land and Environment Court's decision to reject a controversial proposal for homes in the foothills of the escarpment at Cosgrove Avenue, Keiraville, NF5 is calling on Council to accelerate the rezoning of this site and others on the lower escarpment to protect the environment and reduce bushfire risk to homes.
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NF5 will prepare a submission to the NSW Government's Freight Policy Reform requesting the completion of the Maldon-Dombarton rail link to increase the share of freight and passenger traffic to and from western Sydney, including the new airport.
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NF5 will prepare a submission to the NSW Office of Local Government supporting the abolition of closed briefings of Council to increase transparency and trust in Council. NF5 also seeks the support of Council for a ban on the closed briefings.
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Council will also be asked to ensure the use of community parks across the city for events is encouraged and provided free of charge and for Council to maintain park infrastructure (e.g. toilets) to prevent demolition.
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NF5 has asked the newly elected Council to help resolve an ongoing issue with the provision of a meeting room for the neighbourhood forum's meetings by providing a Council facility and covering any public liability risk, either by adjusting the terms of the meeting room occupation or taking out separate insurance cover.
Interested members of the public are welcome to attend the NF5 meetings. The next will be held at 6pm on Monday, 4 November at Wiseman Park Bowling Club, Gwynneville.
