Newcastle Independents candidate for Ward 1, John Church, says Wickham's got a bustling future ahead of it. There are currently 18 projects which are underway or in the pipeline for the suburb, and the potential influx of new residents has existing ones worried.
“I have been consulting with local residents who want to see progress but who are genuinely concerned about parking, increased traffic in already narrow streets and the lack of public space," said Mr Church.
Mr Church says the Wickham Master Plan, which was launched earlier this year, needs serious funding and commitment to help the suburb effectively manage the growing pains. "The master plan creates a pathway forward but needs funding."
"We believe enacting the Wickham Master Plan, by spending DA Section 94 contributions, is an effective way to get the Mast Plan underway. Otherwise, we'll get left behind."
The funding, Mr Church says, doesn't have to be re-spent in Wickham under existing arrangements. But he believes "Wickham is a special case" which needs careful management to prevent overcrowding and over-use of services.
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| Newcastle Ward 1 Candidate John Church |
