Labor
Deputy Lord Mayor Verity Firth has
expressed grave concern at the State Government’s apparent abandonment of the
Pemulwuy Project.
“Yesterday’s
decision by Minister Sartor is regrettable and should be reversed. It has made the
realisation of the project impossible,” said Clr Firth today.
The Draft
Built Environment Plan rezones the block so that only 30 homes can be built
rather than the 62 provided through the Pemulwuy Project.
“The
Pemulwuy Project promotes mixed use of the block and includes plans for
affordable family homes, a public civic space and commercial area, artist
markets, a student hostel, a sports facility and an Indigenous business
college.
“For six
years a distinguished coalition of Indigenous leaders, community activists and
internationally respected urban and social planners has worked hard to develop
the initiative. State Government bureaucrats even attended project workshops.
“With
one stroke of a pen this innovative development has seemingly been abandoned.
“We
had self-determination in action. It resulted in a credible redevelopment plan
that was supported by the residents and the local business community. Now we
are told that it’s been a waste of time.
“I call
upon the community to use the upcoming consultation period urge the Minister to
re-think his position and give Pemulwuy the consideration it deserves.”