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Rename bridge, says Andrews

Member for Gosford Marie Andrews has called on Gosford councillors to reverse their decision to name the new cycle and pedestrian bridge after Spike Milligan.

"After Council, by the narrowest of margins, decided to name the bridge Spike Milligan Bridge, my office in Woy Woy has received numerous complaints from disappointed Peninsula residents," Ms Andrews said.

"Residents told me they felt naming a room after Spike Milligan in council's upgraded Woy Woy library was a sufficient tribute to the English comedian.

"I'm quickly gaining the impression that residents would be satisfied if the bridge was simply called the Woy Woy Bridge.

Ms Andrews claims that residents feel most upset because council did not bother to consult with them over the naming of the bridge.

"The issue has the potential to divide this compact community of over 35,000 residents," Ms Andrews said.

"To add insult to injury, council took notice of a petition initiated by a person who doesn't even live on the Peninsula and decided to act on that.

"Councillors, like Members of Parliament, are elected to serve the community whether they live on the Woy Woy Peninsula or not.

"This decision is seen as yet another slap in the face for Woy Woy Peninsula residents who already feel unrepresented on council.

"Continuing problems with dirty water coming through their taps on a regular basis; lack of decent local roads, kerb and guttering; proposals to increase their rates and now an unpopular decision to name their bridge, all combined have left Peninsula residents wondering who represents them in council."

Press release, 26 Jul 2007 Marie Andrews, Member for Gosford