Blue Mountains Gazette 19 March 2008
By Damien Madigan
Springwood's three Ward councillors have admitted there are aspects of all the proposals shortlisted to revitalise the town's shopping centre that they are unhappy with.
But they said getting expressions of interest from the private sector was the "prologue" in a long negotiating process to gain the best outcome for the community.
Labor Clr Alison McLaren said there would be "extensive community consultation" while council negotiated with Coles, Woolworths and Jamieson Property Group over their proposals for the town.
"While we do that (consult with the community) we need to negotiate with the proponents to work out what size civic centre we need, what we need in the library, what spaces are needed in the neighbourhood centre - all those things are going to have to be worked out and all of those will be up for negotiation."
Blue Mountains mayor Jim Angel has also reassured the community about an ongoing consultation process.
"Council will consult with interested local residents and businesses, and relevant government and non-government and community organisations, in the development of the requirements for the town centre and the community and civic facilities and services," he said.
The Ward 3 councillors have urged the community to let them know their views now the process has moved to the next stage.
"Our advice to the community is to come and talk to us and look at the opportunities that are on offer. Put forward what you want to see in your town," said Clr McLaren.
Clr Lyn Trindall said she would like to "hear from as many people as possible".
"We are hearing from a very narrow group of people and I would like to encourage people ... to get in touch with us," she said.