Member for Davidson, Jonathan O'Dea has nailed his colours to the mast over future priorities for the area covered by the Shore Regional Organisation of Councils (SHOROC).
Speaking in Parliament, Mr O'Dea threw his weight behind SHOROC's "Shaping Our Future" strategy document, which has been developed by the Manly, Mosman, Pittwater and Warringah Councils to strategically shape the way the region will look, feel and grow over the next 20 years.
Mr O'Dea said, "Investment in the transport priorities identified in that document, including a bus rapid transit system, road upgrades and a new underground interchange at Neutral Bay, would help to cut travelling times.
"In terms of health, our hospitals are run down and unable to cope with demand, let alone the real effects of an ageing population and population growth. Investment in the priorities identified, including immediate construction of the level five Northern Beaches Hospital at Frenchs Forest, is needed to provide proper health services for residents in the area.
"I congratulate the Shore Regional Organisation of Councils on its vision, which has been clearly articulated in its summary brochure that can be easily understood by members of the public. They have a uniform voice in setting these important priorities for the future of the region," he said.
"I place on record my strong support for the transport and health priorities identified in the document. I also note the need for additional funding and action to further progress those priorities. In particular, there is a need to fund feasibility studies around the bus rapid transit system proposals.
In advance of the upcoming election, that should be welcomed by the current Government. If not, I expect that an incoming Liberal Government would make it a priority," he said.
Links to Mr O'Dea speech in full can be found on his website, www.jonathanodea.com.au. The speech link is also expected to be added to the SHOROC website, www.shoroc.com.
