Sports Minister and Miranda MP Graham Annesley today urged the Planning Assessment Commission to consider the ‘‘wider implications’’ when making a decision on the Cronulla Sharks’ development.
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In a surprise move, Mr Annesley was the first of many speakers to address the three-member commission panel at a public meeting at Rydges Hotel at Cronulla.
He said he was not qualified to give opinions ‘‘about things like size, density, or traffic impacts,’’ ‘‘but, in some development applications there are wider implications than just the bricks and mortar issues’’.
‘‘I’m not trying to dramatise or overplay the situation, but it’s common knowledge the club is heavily in debt,’’ he said.
‘‘Their financial backers have been patient, waiting for the outcome of the decision you’re now contemplating.
‘‘If the club folds because of financial pressures, the repercussions will be felt far beyond just Sharks fans’ in Sutherland Shire.
‘‘It’s not only about possibly having to close the doors of a local commercial operation ... but it could also shatter the dreams and aspirations of thousands of people to whom the Sharks are an integral part of their daily lives.’’
Some speakers were opposed to the project and Sharks’ stars Paul Gallen and Ben Ross were among those who voiced support for it.
What did you think of the meeting?
