Ed,

As a permanent resident of Yamba since 1976, I write to express both my astonishment and serious concern in relation to the proposed ‘Parkside’, 8 Park Avenue subdivision development in Yamba.

Seriously, this would have to be one of the most hare-brained proposals – and there is plenty of serious competition for that title – I have heard about in the Yamba area.

Question 1: which parallel universe do those associated with this proposal live in?

Question 2: if this proposal is supported by Clarence Valley Council and/or the Northern Regional Planning Panel, will those organisations provide definitive information and assurances as to exactly what (and when) support, both financial and in kind, will be provided to those whose well-being is disadvantaged as a consequence of implementing the proposal.

It was heartening to hear the Clarence Valley Council mayor, Ian Tiley, tell ABC North Coast radio listeners on Friday 15th July that the NSW government needs to create legislation to allow councils to back-pedal on developments previously approved on flood plains.

Yes, different times calls for different legislation.

Premier Perrottet must show leadership and take on board Mr Tiley’s remarks. Otherwise, our state’s legislators will be held in disdain, in a manner similar to those who opposed new laws in the 1840s to prevent children working in mines – and rightly so.

Col Shephard, Yamba