On 27 July 2017, Premier Gladys Berejiklian announced that, due to the protracted nature of legal challenges and the uncertainty that was causing ratepayers, the council amalgamations currently before the courts, including the proposed merger between Hornsby Shire Council and Ku-ring-gai Council, would not proceed.

The future of the Ku-ring-gai and Hornsby Councils is now clear – they will remain as stand-alone councils

In respect of this issue, I have consistently said that my primary concern is to retain the unique character of our area. I now urge the Councils to focus on better infrastructure for our community. We need improved roads, footpaths and recreational facilities from the Councils.

The Councils retain their political independence but now have the opportunity to partner with other councils to achieve economies of scale in their administration across a range of areas. I encourage them to do just that. 

With the upcoming council elections taking place on 9 September, there is now a great opportunity for people who have been successful in business, the professions or other pursuits to become councillors and to make a valuable contribution to our area.