Former prime minister Scott Morrison,the member for Cook,has thrown his support behind a local campaign to stop the potential axing of a proposed extension to a clifftop walking track at Cronulla.Credit:Rhett Wyman
“This was not just an idea,but a great project that was ready to go. All the hard work has been done,and for the community to now be denied at this final hurdle is very disappointing,” Morrison said.
Morrison’s intervention into the debate over the boardwalk – which has long had local bipartisan support – sets the stage for a showdown between Sutherland Shire Council and local politicians,and the Minns government,over the future of the prized waterfront site.
NSW Opposition Leader and Cronulla MP Mark Speakman told residents this month that the state government waspoised to scrap part of the planto extend the Esplanade track from Salmon Haul Reserve to Darook Park on Gunnamatta Bay,creating a full loop for walkers.
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The proposed addition to the track passes through Hungry Point Reserve,a heritage-rich parcel of Crown land which Marine Rescue NSW uses as its operational headquarters. Itwants to convert the site into a $12 million training complex.
Speakman said any plans to cancel the section of the extension between Hungry Point and Darook Park would give the agency “exclusive access” to much of the site.
Lands and Property Minister Steve Kamper said Marine Rescue NSW was concerned the boardwalk could obstruct volunteers’ access to the water and their ability to conduct water safety duties.