Monument on the move

Two motions presented at the meeting by residents Tina Klein and Paul Bridges called on the council to recognise the War Memorial as a site of cultural and heritage significance, and to restore it in its present location, including the surrounding and commemorative landscaping.

Mr Bridges said it was an impassioned plea made by the people of the Town who rightly deserved to have their say following what he described as little community consultation on the project.

‘While everyone fully respects the Returned Services League, the mayor came in for criticism for only initially getting them on board for his pet project and not consulting with the community until it was a fait accompli,’ he said.

‘Even the poor consultation, which just consisted basically of a couple of displays of the concept plans and a request for submissions, did not generate more than 10 ‘in favour’ responses and more were against.

‘This is the second community meeting where the public have told the council very clearly they do not want the memorial to move from the heart of town.’

Cr Gangell said the project would go ahead regardless of the forthcoming council elections and amalgamations.