A PROPOSAL to investigate drainage options at Tuffins Lane sports fields has sparked debate at Port Macquarie-Hastings Council, with councillors split over whether to commit $500,000 for an environmental assessment and development application.
At the 17 April meeting, Council voted 6-3 to consider funding the works in a future Operational Plan or Long-Term Financial Plan.
The move also includes writing to local MP Rob Dwyer to seek state support for the project.
Mayor Adam Roberts defended the proposal, saying, “only in recent years have we taken ownership of Tuffins Lane, and we can’t get state government funding for this project.
“I do intend to raise it with Council to find the $500,000 needed.”
Councillor Hamish Tubman supported the motion, but stressed the environmental risks.
“I do support this, but I want to highlight why there is a need for a detailed environmental assessment,” he said.
“The concern is that if more drainage is installed it could reduce the water level in the area, which would bring up acid sulfate soils, which are dangerous for the environment.”
However, not all councillors were convinced.
Cr Rachel Sheppard opposed the plan, citing long-term financial concerns.
“The purchase of Tuffins Lane is one of the biggest and worst examples of cost shifting onto ourselves,” she said.
“We were made well aware of the extreme limitations of the site and the exorbitant costs that would be involved in putting drainage in.
“We’re looking at a total cost of $3.8 million and we don’t know what the lifetime cost of maintenance will be, which I am really concerned about.”
The motion passed, with councillors Edwards, Kirkman, Lipovac, Maltman, Roberts and Tubman in favour, and councillors Hornshaw, Intemann and Sheppard against.
The decision means Council will now explore funding avenues, but any allocation will require further budgetary approval in upcoming planning cycles.
By Emily GRAHAM
