Protest At Shop Plan
Newcastle Herald
Wednesday July 23, 2008
THE 11-member Save Our Branxton committee will begin to devise a campaign tonight opposing a $10 million shopping centre proposed for the town's main street.
The committee was formed from a public meeting last week that attracted about 75 people.One of the meeting's organisers, Branxton IGA Supermarket employee Darryl Clarke, said yesterday there was increasing concern about plans by development company ROI Properties to build a supermarket and nine specialty shops on a New England Highway site that included historic Brown's Garage, which would be demolished.The main concerns were the bulk and design of the two-storey shopping centre and its effect on Branxton's heritage and social fabric, traffic congestion and existing businesses.The proposal has divided the Branxton business community.Supporters say it will stimulate the economy, create jobs, increase business competition and improve shopping choice and convenience for residents.Mr Clarke said more than 500 people had signed a petition objecting to the proposed centre and many were expected to put individual submissions to Cessnock City Council, which is exhibiting the plan for public comment until August 1."Heritage seems to be the biggest concern at the moment, but a lot of people are also talking about traffic problems and the fact the shopping centre will overshadow the local preschool and several neighbouring homes," Mr Clarke said.
© 2008 Newcastle Herald