Federal Election 2019: Labor promises $500K for Ryde River Walk
Labor has promised $500,000 to complete the “missing link” in the Ryde River Walk.
Labor has promised $500,000 to complete the “missing link” in the Ryde River Walk.
Labor Bennelong candidate Dr Brian Owler said the funding would extend the boardwalk over Looking Glass Bay between Bill Mitchell and Glades Bay parks.
Ryde River Walk stretches along the Parramatta River from Ryde Bridge to Gladesville Bridge but is not complete because it diverts up a steep stair case between two parks and winds through suburban streets.
Dr Owler accused Bennelong MP John Alexander and Ryde Council’s Liberals of compromising the project because of waterfront property owners.
“It is a great shame that completing the glorious Ryde River walk is something that John Alexander has so far refused to champion,’’ he said.
“Labor believes that this beautiful riverside area belongs to the people — and I look forward to both locals and visitors alike enjoying seamless access to this unique open space.”
Ryde Labor Mayor Jerome Laxale said the project was overdue.
“We know the people of Ryde, Gladesville and other nearby suburbs want this missing link of the Ryde River Walk finally completed.”
But Waterfront Action Group member John Douglas said the group rejected the proposal.
“We reject the form of any boardwalk, whether it’s going over land or over water and the reason is the legal position we have from 2013 senior counsel.”
Mr Douglas said the proposal breached property owners’ rights and was not feasible.
“One, I think it will be impractical over the water,’’ he said.
“It’s also potentially unsafe and unsightly.
“The people who have property there have a right to access property in an unimpeded way.”
Mr Alexander called on Cr Laxale to stop spreading mistruths about the walk after the Gillard government failed to deliver it while in office.
He said the Coalition delivered $1.1 million for the Riverwalk in 2013.
“The walk is an outstanding community asset and I will certainly consider any further requests from council to further improve it,’’ he said.
“Any decision though must be met with genuine and broad community support.”
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