Graham to voice his concerns

Councillor Mark Graham will be presenting his ideas on unsustainable urban sprawl.

SUSTAINABILITY campaigner Mark Graham is taking his concerns about the impact of ongoing urban sprawl and development to a wider audience.

The Coffs Harbour City Councillor, who has been leading opposition to the proposed Bonville International Golf Resort residential development, will state his case for the protection of prime agricultural lands at a gathering in Bellingen on Monday night.

During his talk and workshop Mr Graham will also focus on the Nambucca Shire Council’s plans for a major new residential and industrial estate at West Valla.

“The best agricultural lands on the Mid North Coast are under threat from unsustainable urban sprawl being pushed by a greedy few,” Mr Graham said.

“Major new towns of in excess of 10,000 residents are proposed at both Bonville and West Valla, two of the most productive and valuable agricultural landscapes,” he said. “There is an urgent need to protect these lands to ensure food security and allow local food industries to flourish.” Mr Graham said he is particularly keen to mobilise action by concerned residents of the region to prevent both the Bonville and West Valla developments from going ahead.

His presentation at the Bellingen Uniting Church Hall begins at 6.30 on Monday night.