Blue Mountains mayor Mark Greenhill has launched a broadside at the federal government for refusing to allow longer time for public submissions about Badgerys Creek airport.
Clr Greenhill said he understood the CEO of Western Sydney Region of Councils, Mr Charles Casuscelli, was advised by the environment minister’s office that there will be no extension of time, despite requests from WSROC, Blue Mountains council, other western Sydney councils and the community.
“Sixty days to respond to the EIS isn’t long enough to consider a very lengthy and technically complex document,” Clr Greenhill said. “Frankly, the lack of consultation by the Australian government is an insult to the western Sydney community.
“This is the most significant proposal affecting the liveability of western Sydney for the next century. The Australian government has an obligation to provide comprehensive information and allow a reasonable opportunity for the community to review the information and respond.”
Clr Greenhill also announced a new website for council’s campaign against the airport – www.clearbluesky.info.
“The Clear Blue Sky web page provides residents with information about council’s campaign over this outrageous proposal that impacts the Blue Mountains so intensely,” said the mayor
“It also provides details of council’s campaign and upcoming events.
“Importantly, we will be sending a flyer to all residents inviting them to another extraordinary council meeting on the subject which will be held in the Springwood Community Hub.
“At that meeting, councillors will be considering reports on the government’s airport proposal and we will be inviting members of the public to speak. I am hoping for a large turnout.”
Labor candidate for Macquarie, Susan Templeman, said a detailed look at the EIS made it worse for the entire Mountains.
"Buried in an appendix in Chapter 4 is a table that shows the impact on 'lifestyle and amenity' in Blaxland is in the same category of 'negative impact' as for the people in Badgerys Creek and Silverdale,” she said.
