by Katrina Emmett
The unanimous decision by Hornsby Shire Council on 11th March to halt the planning proposal to rezone 1–3 Johnson Road from rural to general industrial use is a tremendous positive outcome for the Galston community.
For over two years, local residents, families and community groups have worked tirelessly to raise concerns about the proposal. Community members attended every Council meeting, wrote submissions, organised petitions, spoke to councillors and supported one another in standing up for the character and future of our area.
The result shows the power of a community that refuses to give up. When people consistently show up, make their voices heard and remain respectful but determined, they can help shape the decisions that affect the places they live.
The decision is also a reminder that community spaces matter deeply to the people who live around them. Galston is proud of its village character, green spaces and strong sense of community connection. Protecting those qualities is something residents care about passionately.
While this outcome is worth celebrating, it should also mark the beginning of the next important step. Now is the time for Council to formally rezone 3 Johnson Road site as RE1 Public Recreation, in perpetuity. Doing so would provide certainty that this space will remain protected for future generations and avoid similar proposals resurfacing in years to come.
Many residents would welcome the opportunity to see the land preserved as a lasting community asset, something that reflects the values and priorities of the people who live here.
Finally, while the outcome is positive, some residents remain concerned about the differences between what was resolved in the Mayoral Minute of December last year – which called for independent evaluation of financial assessments – and the approach that ultimately led to the recommendation for the proposal being withdrawn in March.
Transparency and clarity around such processes are important for maintaining public trust.
For now, though, the community can take pride in what has been achieved. Galston residents stood together, stayed engaged and never backed down – and that collective effort has made a real difference.
