Community outrage at approval of a new gun shop at Roseville is a clear sign the Iemma Labor Government needs to regulate where gun shops are allowed to open within suburban areas, Shadow Minister for Planning Brad Hazzard and Liberal Member for Davidson Jonathan O’Dea said today.
“NSW planning regulations should ensure shops that sell guns shouldn’t be treated like cafés or other retail outlets”, Mr Hazzard said.
“Planning laws must ensure local communities can determine whether gun shops are appropriate in certain locations or should be moved to more discreet premises,” he said.
“Local rural communities might expect gun shops on main streets, however many urban communities would not want gun shops in highly visible suburban locations or opposite child care facilities.
“Law abiding shooters are entitled to access retail services but that doesn’t necessarily mean gun shops have to be in highly visible areas. This is a red hot issue and the Iemma Labor Government needs to respond immediately to allay community concerns.”
Mr O’Dea said Ku-ring-gai Council should have consulted the community over the development application when it was lodged.
“The Davidson community is understandably concerned about the prospect of a gun shop opening opposite a preschool and childcare facility at Roseville.
“Ku-ring-gai Council officials should have taken the issue to residents for comment and to elected councillors for a decision rather than dealing with it under delegated authority with no local consultation.
“The shop’s owner has shown he is willing to listen to the community and I commend him for this. The issue is not about vilifying gun shops or owners but about giving the community a say in where gun shops are located.
“I support the community’s call for Ku-ring-gai Council to consider alternative arrangements for the shop to be relocated to a more appropriate location.
“I would be delighted if Frank Sartor could assist in this process given his recent comments. Inadequate planning laws have made it difficult for council to date.”
