The Health Minister has repeatedly failed to provide answers to the Inglewood community regarding the recent demolition of the town’s old ambulance station.
I raised this matter in Parliament on several occasions, lodged two petitions, and contacted the Minister’s office in writing and by phone. I also spoke with the Member for Ripon, Martha Haylett, seeking to defer the demolition to enable further discussion about potential uses for the building.
I have now received responses to the two petitions that were tabled in Parliament, which underline the disrespect the Minister has for the Inglewood community.
The responses provide nothing more in the way of an explanation for the demolition, which was extremely upsetting for the community.
I am very disappointed that the Minister ignored repeated requests from the local community to save the building, and misled the public by stating that the 1980s brick building contained asbestos when contractors confirmed there was none.
To date the Minister has failed to explain why the building was demolished, and provided no evidence to suggest that the condition of the building posed a safety threat.
The Labor Government’s decision to demolish the building, without listening to the Inglewood community shows a complete disregard for local residents, and their work over many years to help pay for the building.
I await a further response from the Minister.