Local Planning Statement

Destroying our town centers with massive highway upgrades and duplication does not support the local communities

Any sort of bypass for Blackheath is a complete waste of NSW money. Intermodal depot at St Marys should be expedited to decrease trucks.

In Canada there are almost no trucks on highways as all freight is on trains, some very long. We need to do this here so Our roads are clear

"Upgrades" to the great Western Highway should not occur at the expense of communities that live along this route.

We need to be assured there are NO big trucks!

Develop a cycleway along the railway line

Our first dedicated cycleway in the mountains could run along the railway track, linking all the towns. It would be an excellent drawcard for tourists and locals would love it.

Reduce demand for bus Coaches parking in Villages

Along the lines of the train replacement busses that we have during rail maintenance, we could have these running as shuttle services permanently to connect not only railway stations but to detour to tourist attractions. I guess similar to the Leura gardens festival shuttle. Tourists could then hop off the Coach or train at Penrith or Emu Plains (or wherever practicable) and shuttle up the mountain and back down again. Neither the shuttles which would constantly be on the go, nor Coaches would need parking in the villages.

Increase number of late night public transport options to/from Katoomba and other Blue Mountains towns to encourage people to stay longer

Increase the number of festivals and events held in Katoomba to boost visitor numbers across the year.

Katoomba has a number of fantastic festivals and events (Blue Mountains Music Festival, Winter Magic, etc). More events and festivals could be held to boost visitor numbers and encourage tourists to stay longer in the town.

Increase occupation rates for shops in Katoomba main street by cracking down on rorting of negative gearing on investment properties.

Provide incentives for organisations to acquire, adapt and utilise vacant buildings and land for accommodating homeless people

Significant scenic views are protected

Significant scenic views in all Blue Mountains towns from the public domain should be protected and retained. This scenic link between urban settlements and the natural environment is what makes our Blue Mountains so special. These views should not be blocked by inappropriate development and opportunities for passive public enjoyment should be expanded.