Premier Hodgman needs to come out of hiding and address serious community concerns about the large-scale Huntingfield development
Shadow Housing Minister Alison Standen said it was unacceptable that the Premier and his Housing Minister Roger Jaensch had failed to front a recent meeting of more than 300 locals who are concerned about the Liberal Government's proposed housing supply land order for the Channel Highway.
"Locals are rightly concerned about the proposed building of 500 individual lots over 67 hectares and what that would mean for residents who are already faced with insufficient infrastructure including schools and public transport and serious issues around traffic and other services," Ms Standen said.
"While there's an urgent need for access to housing for Tasmanians, this development will not deliver social or affordable housing.
"Locals are being kept in the dark about what the government's commitment to a master plan will look like at the end of the day in relation to critical facilities like playgrounds, cycle paths and open space."
Shadow Infrastructure Minister David O'Byrne said the Premier needed to consult with the community to allay fears that the proper approval processes will be put in place should the Huntingfield land be rezoned.
"In the middle of an unprecedented housing crisis, it's critical that the government makes building more social housing and affordable housing a priority," Mr O'Byrne said.
"My concern as the local Member is that planning needs to be focused on the need for the right infrastructure and access to services are in place for an increase in the local population of potentially thousands of people.
"The Premier cannot just plough ahead without taking on community concerns and talking to locals who will be affected."
Alison Standen MP
Shadow Housing Minister
David O'Byrne MP
Shadow Infrastructure Minister
