Hi Birders,
You might remember earlier this year I wrote about a proposal to
build a heliport at Capertee (NSW) for the purpose of the developer
operating helicopter joy-flights over the Capertee Valley and other
surrounding areas. This of course would threaten the tranquility and
birding amenity in this exceptionally bird-rich area. Many of you
responded with letters to Lithgow Council while some birding and
other environment groups spent considerable time and energy putting
together detailed submissions.
Well, I'm very pleased to report that on Monday night 19th Dec,
Lithgow Councillors voted to reject the proposal. The word I've
received (I couldn't attend the meeting myself) is that the decision
was unanimous, or close to it, with "public amenity" being the key
idea. Not unexpectedly, the proponent has decided to exercise his
right to appeal the decision in the Land & Environment Court. However
I believe it is unlikely the decision will be overturned.
I'd like to thank all the individual birders and birding clubs who
wrote letters. This was all very much a group effort and all the
letters from the birding community, from near and far, certainly
helped to draw the Councillors' attention to the great importance of
the valley as a birdwatching location. Thanks to everyone who
supported this cause the valley will remain a traquil place and
birding will continue to be as enjoyable as ever there.
I encourage you to show your appreciation of this courageous decision
by congratulating the Councillors (c/- Neville Castle, Mayor of
Lithgow, and most of all by continuing to visit
the area and patronise local businesses and accommodation - and let
them know you are there to see birds and enjoy the peaceful
environment.
Cheers
Carol
Carol Probets
Blue Mountains/Capertee Valley, NSW
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