Gareth Smith, Byron Bay
My family and I are totally opposed to this mega-development, which is so out of keeping with the character of Byron Bay.
The massive floorspace and increased height of this structure makes it a colossus that bestrides Byron, a village of low buildings, most of which continue to carry something of the original alternative feel of this precious place.
This 146 room hotel will spew even more vehicles onto Jonson Street which, thanks to the new Mercato complex, is now regularly gridlocked.
Stationary vehicles with engines running generate exhaust pollution, which causes health problems and sullies the community’s enjoyment of life and leisure.
At a time of global climate crisis a development of this kind sides with the problem rather than the solution. The earthworks and concrete required to build structures like this and the recently finished Mercato complex are energy dense and thus have a huge CO2 footprint.
This development must be opposed with civil disobedience and ratepayer revolt if necessary.
For four decades The Echo has printed the stories some people loved, some people hated, and some pretended not to read. If you want us to keep telling the truth, the real truth, not the sugar-coated version. We’ll need your support to keep the presses rolling. 
