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Canberra Today 25°/29° | Friday, March 29, 2024 | Digital Edition | Crossword & Sudoku

Letters / Hands off our shops!

IN June, 2011, the ACT government floated a proposal for redevelopment at the Curtin shopping centre, it was suggested, the possible demolition of some shops and the construction of residential units with commercial premises.

A public meeting on June 25, 2011, at the Curtin shops attracted more than 200 local residents who expressed strong opposition. The 2012 ACT Planning Strategy continued to specifically identify Curtin as an area for future “urban intensification” (housing in-fill).

Now, in 2015, the Environment and Planning Directorate is at it again, under the guise of the need for a “master plan” for the Curtin shopping centre. Why? Their reasoning is “because there isn’t one”.

According to the directorate, the proposed master plan would lead to a variation to the Territory Plan to introduce a new “precinct code” for the shopping centre. Such a plan would address such vital issues as parking, but would also cover new building heights, urban intensification, higher night-time use and the need for a “visual identity”.

The 5000-plus residents of Curtin would probably settle for improved parking facilities and a sign saying: “Curtin Shopping Centre” in preference to a costly makeover at ratepayers’ expense and inconvenience.

Public comments close with the directorate on Wednesday, June 10.

M McGregor, Curtin

PM sings the same old song

“THE last thing we’ll do is close down this trade,” said Tony Abbott.

quillThose were Prime Minister Abbott’s words in response to revelations that Australian cattle are being  slaughtered with sledgehammers in Vietnamese abattoirs.

Animals Australia documented brutal practices in Vietnam late last month and lodged a complaint with the Department of Agriculture.

Lisa Chalk, Communications Director of Animals Australia, said the footage of the cattle being killed with repeated blows to the head with a sledgehammer was “so shocking and distressing” that they have decided not to publicly release it at this time.

Mr Abbott said the government would “carefully investigate” any allegations and “take appropriate action” if the allegations were proved.

He seems to have the same answer for all his problems these days (boat people, aged care, homelessness and live animal trade). Either he refuses to be part of a solution or wipes his hands of any issue that might cause him or his party to lose votes or support.

It takes a strong, honest and passionate leader to tackle the difficult and unpopular issues. Tony Abbott does not seem to be that leader.

A Crowe, via email

 

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