Telco tower compromise

Telstra has agreed to install its communications tower further away from homes on Abbott Road after several residents raised their concerns with me. The new proposal will also see funding for better lighting at John Fisher Park, which will benefit sporting groups who use the park. The entire community will be asked to consider the full plans when a Development Application is submitted.

Commuters speak up for ferries

Almost 200 residents took the opportunity to speak directly with the head of the Ferry Inquiry, Bret Walker SC, at a forum I hosted in July 2007. Mr Walker acknowledged the contributions of Manly commuters in his final report, particularly their call for a more integrated public transport system.

Balgowlah school upgrade

Balgowlah North Public School has been upgraded, with new verandas, steps, ramps and covered outdoor learning areas, thanks to a $141,088 grant from the Howard Government. The covered walkways link the playground with classrooms so students no longer have to walk through the car park.

$8m for new hospital

I know there are suspicions on the progress of the new Northern Beaches hospital, but it was reassuring that the State Government did allocate $8 million to land acquisition in the last Budget, taking expenditure so far to $17 million.

More police

The peninsula now has 10 new probationary constables, three of which are part of the Manly police command. These additional police will help make Manly a safe place to live.

North Head Sewage upgrade

$70 million has been announced for new work at the North Head Sewage Treatment Plant as part of a plan to save water, upgrade electricals and reduce odours from the plant.

Housing for homeless

Fourteen homeless people now have a comfortable home on Sydney Road in an old apartment block that was bought for $2.25 million by the State Government and renovated. North Shore Community Housing now manages the building.