State Member for Wallsend, Ms Sonia Hornery MP, has expressed her disappointment that at a number of projects were left out of the NSW Budget.
Money for the Wallsend Flood Mitigation works, a Wallsend Police Station and the recently announced upgrade of Callaghan College Jesmond Campus were notable exclusions in the Budget handed down earlier today.
Earlier this year, the Premier promised to slash hospital parking fees by up to $200 a week for patients and their families, effective July 1. There is nothing in the budget papers for this promise.
Most of the money allocated to projects in the Wallsend electorate are reannouncements of previously funded projects.
Ms Hornery welcomed funding for the preparation of a business case and planning works for the Lake Macquarie Transport Interchange.
Quotes attributable to Member for Wallsend, Sonia Hornery
“The Treasurer claimed that this Budget is the envy of the western world, but there is nothing enviable about this Government’s neglect of the western suburbs.”
“The budget announcements today concentrate a disproportionate level of spending in Sydney, leaving vital projects languishing for another year.”
“This budget is not aimed at investing in, or growing, regions such as ours.”
“The Government has reannounced money for the Newcastle Inner City Bypass, Wallsend Fire Station and the John Hunter Hospital NICU. Some of the projects were announced back in 2014.”
“There was also no allocation for the upgrade of Callaghan College Jesmond Campus, despite previous promises.”
“The only good news was the announcement of $2.7 million for the Glendale Transport Interchange.”
“This budget pays lip service to the people of the Wallsend electorate. The Government is spending big on flashy items in Sydney but is leaving our community out in the cold.”