Developer allays fear
Vet clinic proposal has nature in mind Man faces counts of stabbing
CONCERNS over a proposed Edmonton vet clinic’s environmental and historical impact have been slammed as unfounded and insulting by the developer.
The Cairns Post reported last month that NQ Veterinary Services had lodged a development application with Cairns Regional Council to turn the 4000sq m site at 47 Bruce Highway into a comprehensive equine clinic.
But Kevin Campbell, a businessman and long-term tenant, feared the project would diminish the southside property’s “unique history” and rich wildlife.
“I don’t wish to cause any problems, but I also do not want to stand by and allow everything to be destroyed and/or killed,” he told the Cairns Post.
“I believe no one has the right to stop a property from being sold. I just don’t want to see everything possibly destroyed.”
Mr Campbell, who has ren- ted the property since 1991, said he was asked in recent days by the current landlord – not the veterinary business – to vacate the premises.
Dr Stephanie Williams, one of the development’s proponents, said the company had absolutely no intention of “bulldozing everything” or “killing the animals”.
“Structurally sound native trees will stay, introduced species and regrowth will be tidied up and further native species will be planted. This … plan is available for public perusal.
“As an individual I love animals, wildlife and nature and … it’s quite insulting to be told I have plans to destroy these animals’ lives.”
Dr Williams said the property, in its current condition, desperately needed some “TLC”.
Under the proposal, the existing house would become an equine veterinary practice including a “waiting room, reception, staffroom, consultation room, preparation area, surgery, laboratory, laundry and holding pens”. A CAIRNS man is due to appear in court this morning charged with stabbing two people at an Earlville house.
The 43-year-old is facing two counts of wounding following the incident which occurred at a De Jarlais St residence on Thursday night.
It is alleged he attacked a 57-year-old man and a 29year-old woman during an altercation, with both requiring treatment for their injuries.
The older man defended himself by hitting the alleged offender over the head with a bottle, knocking him unconscious.
The alleged offender also had to be taken to Cairns Hospital for treatment of the head injury.
He was discharged on Saturday then charged by police.
He is due to appear in the Cairns Magistrates Court this morning.