Published on Friday, 10 July 2020 at 4:01:34 PM
I wish to issue a statement in regards to the proposed shared pedestrian and cycle path project along Sutherland Street, which was announced last month.
This project is now at a point where members of the public are resorting to angry, ill-informed and self-interested positions, wasting a large amount of the Town’s time.
The facts are simple – this is an extension of a path to allow people to walk along the foreshore.
The people that live in this area have said they support the dual pathway, but not this one; that they support access to the coast, but not near their homes.
This issue has become far too divisive. I now consider this project should be for the next Council to consider. As a Commissioner, I do not believe it is my role to become involved in local political issues.
I have always maintained that this development is in the best interests of progressing Hedland, allowing a population of over 15,000 to enjoy the ocean views, connecting the West End District with the Spoilbank Marina. I have great hope that when a decision is made, it is made to benefit members of the community that do not have beach views.
Although we are deferring the project until a new Council is in place, Town officers will immediately progress with the compliance issues that have been discovered during this process, and address the encroachment and illegal building in this area.
I want to thank the Town’s staff for acting in alignment with many strategic plans which identified the pathway as a critical development for Hedland’s liveability. My focus will now be on progressing the numerous projects we have instigated since my tenure here in Port Hedland.
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