ACT Greens act to protect ACT endangered woodlands from development

The ACT Greens are pleased to pass a resolution in the Assembly today that will improve protections for Canberra’s endangered woodlands and its biodiversity.

“This part of Watson Woodlands was not protected when Mt Majura and Mt Ainslie were gazetted as nature reserve,” ACT Greens Leader and Environment spokesperson Shane Rattenbury said today.

“My motion now requires the Government to assess this part of Watson’s endangered Yellow Box-Blakely’s Red Gum Woodland for rezoning and addition to Canberra Nature Park. The endangered woodlands are currently zoned to allow for leisure and accommodation.

“This is not the place we want to see buildings like hotels springing up. We need to ensure that developments respect local communities and protect Canberra’s unique and precious environment.

“The Greens are committed to protect our environment & everything that depends on it.

“Once these precious woodlands are gone, they’re gone for good.

“Sadly, so much of the ACT’s woodlands has already been removed for development or other infrastructure. The Greens have acted today to protect more of what is left.

The ACT’s Yellow-Box Blakely’s Red Gum Woodland is listed as a critically endangered ecological community and is especially valuable as it is home to a variety of rare and threatened species including vulnerable birds and lizards.

“The protection of these precious woodlands is a step in the right direction.”

The Government will report back to the Assembly on the rezoning in August this year.

Statement ends

Lisa Wills                M 0481 035 764         E lisa.wills@act.gov.au