[Greens-Media] Greens Sylvia Hale MLC: Decentralisation best solution for Sydney squeeze

[Christopher Holley]

2 October 2008
 
Decentralisation best solution for Sydney squeeze
 
 
The Government must immediately develop and implement policies to
promote decentralisation if Sydney is to remain a city that is able to
meet the needs of its residents Greens MP and planning spokesperson
Sylvia Hale said today.
 
“It is not good enough to try to cram ever more people into Sydney at a
time when the Government is unable, or unwilling, to fund the
infrastructure that’s necessary for all residents, whether old or new,
to have a decent quality of life,” Ms Hale said.
 
“Clearly Sydney is already too large to be a workable city. Urban
sprawl is engulfing agricultural land, gridlock is a worsening reality
of our roads and overcrowding of our trains and buses, and recreational
lands and open space are under constant threat. Building yet more houses
on the outskirts of the city in areas lacking schools, hospitals, and
public transport is no solution.
 
“It’s time to focus on decentralisation. Country centres must not be
allowed to wither for want of decent services and job opportunities.
Government provision of subsidised housing, and educational, health and
vocational facilities should be priorities. Fast internet and
communication links are essential to providing employment opportunities
in country areas. 
 
“It is critical that both State and Commonwealth governments adopt
policies that are harmonious rather that at odds, policies that will
contribute to resolving rather than exacerbating the problems that
confront our capital cities,” Ms Hale concluded.
 
 
Further information: 9230 3030 / 0437 092 154