Ms Katy Gallagher
Chief Minister & Minister for Regional Development
ACT Legislative Assembly
London Circuit
CANBERRA CITY 2601
Dear Minister,
Re: Ginninderra Falls Area: Need for a 'Cross Border Working Group'
Please find enclosed a copy of the Association's letter (with attachments) to Robyn Parker M.P., the NSW Minister for the Environment.
We see the formation of a "Working Group" as the next step in our quest for a National Park to embrace the wonderfully scenic gorges at the confluence of Ginninderra Creek and the Murrumbridgee River. Such a group should have representatives from NSW, ACT, Yass Valley Council and the Federal Government.
Could you please give Robyn Parker, M.P., your encouragement and support for setting up this Group?
This Group is now very urgent with the current housing development proposals being drawn up by Riverview Pty Ltd, not only for West Belconnen, but also crossing the border into NSW. Our Association is concerned that housing could come unduly close to the Ginninderra and Murrumbridgee Gorges and jeopardies our aim for a worthy National Park.
As Canberra grows apace, there is a pressing need to set aside for public use this biodiverse and recreational area currently in private hands. You would be aware that the Assembly Inquiry on "Ecotourism" in August 2012 recommended that "Ginninderra Falls with sufficient surrounding land', be set aside. Also the current Inquiry on "Regional Development" has also been made aware of these needs,
May we respectfully suggest that expertise can also come from formal involvement of the "Environment and Sustainable Development Directorate" and other relevant ACT Ministers.
Our first meeting with you on May 29, 2012 in your office is recalled. It was there that we agreed on the necessity of cooperating with both the NSW Premier and Yass Valley Council's Mayor, to achieve National Park status for this area so close to the ACT-NSW border. We look forward to your continued efforts on behalf of ACT citizens.
Sincerely
Dr Chris Watson
President
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