Blue Mountains Gazette 14 May 2008, page 7
Ward 3 Councillors Alison McLaren, Lyn Trindall, and Daniel Myles have united to call for any revitalisation of Springwood to preserve the bushland views and general ambience of the town.
"Springwood needs to recover the trade that it has lost to the Coles/Target complex at Winmalee. The Council has a responsibility to drive a debate about how this might happen. However any revitalisation must be in keeping with the character and ambience of the town," said Clr Myles.
He was backed by Labor Councillor Alison McLaren who said she "absolutely supported the retention of the character of Springwood".
"We are all committed to preserving the view from the town square; that's an essential part of Springwood. All three of us are determined to see the community facilities in Springwood improved."
The council has commenced a process to consider options for attracting consumers back into the Springwood shopping district. In March, council resolved to continue with public consultation while forming an assessment of the needs of the Springwood area. At the conclusion of this process, discussion will begin with the private sector.
Clr Lyn Trindall was quick to add that the sale of land was not an option.
"The three of us are against selling community land," she said.
The independent councillor also said the "community could be assured there will be consultation as soon as the legal tendering process is completed".
"The council will take the community with them. Nothing will appear overnight, nothing has been decided yet. There has been no commitment to anything."
Clr Myles would not rule out a public/private partnership of some kind.
"Springwood is suffering. Empirically and anecdotally, it is clear that there are fewer people shopping in Springwood now than in the past 10 years. Many shopkeepers have reported lower revenue, and this leads directly to lower employment," he said.
"Attracting investment in the area can only be a good thing if it is managed right."
The council will continue the drafting of the needs assessment and submit the draft documents for public comment as part of the new financial year.