Calls for final submissions on new suburbs
RESIDENTS in Blacktown’s growth area have been urged to have their final say on a lengthy and controversial proposal to rename and redraw several local suburbs.
Blacktown
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THE Geographical Names Board has called for submissions as it prepares to rule on a proposal to change suburb names and boundaries in the northwest growth area.
Blacktown Council has put its controversial plan on public exhibition until Saturday, September 8, as it seeks to create six new suburbs and redraw the borders of seven existing areas to prepare for a predicted population boom.
Marsden Park, Schofields, Riverstone, Rouse Hill, Vineyard, Quakers Hill and Shanes Park are set to be altered to create new suburbs Melonba, Angus, Richards, Kwigan, Wran and Lynch.
Riverstone state Liberal MP Kevin Conolly, whose electorate includes many impacted suburbs, said the proposal showed the council had “clearly” not listened to residents’ feedback.
“I urge residents of these areas to view the proposals and lodge submissions with the Geographical Names Board,” he said.
“This is the last chance for residents of these areas to have their say about what their suburbs will be called.”
Former Blacktown councillor Allan Green has been a vocal opponent of the changes.
“I have been unable to find one local resident who likes the proposed new suburb names. In fact most local residents are strongly against them,” Mr Green said.
In his submission, Mr Green said “inappropriate” names including Kwigan, Lynch and Wran — to replace parts of Riverstone, Quakers Hill and Schofields — “may have a negative impact on real estate values” if adopted.
The Lynch name has caused particular controversy among residents, and had been proposed for more than one area during a lengthy public consultation period.
More than 6000 residents took part in consultation last year — the largest response to a proposal from the council.
In May Mayor Stephen Bali said most residents were “absolutely” happy with the changes, and the Lynch name was synonymous with the city.
It paid tribute to several well-known Blacktown identities including former mayor Jim Lynch, and the parents of Anita Cobby — Garry and Grace Lynch — he said.
“This has gone through extensive consultation,” Cr Bali said. “The GNB ticked them off — there’s nothing wrong with it.”
The council has been contacted for comment.
To make a submission or view the plans: http://www.gnb.nsw.gov.au/
Plans can also be viewed in person at:
— Max Webber Library, corner Flushcombe Rd & Alpha St, Blacktown
— Our Library @ The Mt Druitt Hub, Ayres Grove, Mt Druitt
— Dennis Johnson Library, corner Stanhope Parkway & Sentry Dr, Stanhope Gardens
— Riverstone Library & Digital Hub, 1st Floor, Riverstone Village, corner Market St & Riverstone Pde, Riverstone
— Lalor Park Library, corner Freeman St & Northcott Rd, Lalor Park