- Read all about what was making headlines in the 1970s as published in Port Macquarie News on Thursday, November 25, 1971.
Permission to construct high rise building developments on lots 11 and 12 in Port Macquarie's Pacific Drive was refused in a unanimous vote by the full Municipal Council.
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The decision was taken after a dramatic reversal of policy to open the council chamber doors so the public and the press could hear the debate first hand.
The town clerk, Mr W.G. Alcock, announced before the meeting that the council's legal experts had advised the council to make its hearing, and decision-making, public.
The council's final decision came after it had:
- received a number of written protests from residents and others;
- heard written praise for high rise building projects from such bodies as the Chamber of Commerce and the Master Builders' Association;
- met an eleventh-hour deputation from the newly formed Conservation Society;
- received a 1000 signature petition from protesting ratepayers;
- been told of a "countering" body formed this week by business interests under the title of the Port Macquarie Progress Association;
- been given evidence and advice at short notice on preserving Port Macquarie's foreshore by members of the State Planning Authority.
After the town clerk had read all correspondence received, the mayor C.C. Adams asked for a motion.
Ald J.G. Howard immediately jumped to his feet declaring: "I move that the high rise application be accepted by the council."
When the mayor asked for a seconder, no one was forthcoming, with the result that Ald Howard's motion was rejected.
Ald N. Matesich, deputy mayor, then moved a motion that the application be turned down. This was seconded by Ald D.S. Kennedy.
Ald Kennedy said a consensus of town planning authorities' opinions were against the application, which would not enhance the ecology of the Pacific Drive area.
It also appeared there would be a traffic hazard if the proposed high rise building was constructed on the applicant's land.
"This is a most important matter which is going to continue on for some time with possibly some repercussions, both personally and otherwise. But we have a big responsibility to see that the right thing is done," Ald. Matesich said.
"I would be the last person wishing to see our town stop progressing, but I would be failing in my duty if I allowed this application to go through.
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