Our community is at a crossroads.

The proposed M1 Fowlers Road Ramps project, in its current form, is expected to result in the acquisition of more than 50 homes and directly impact over 80 households. Behind each of these homes are families, retirees, long-term residents, memories, support networks and lives that have been built within this community over many decades.

We understand the need for improved infrastructure and recognise the importance of upgrading transport connections in the Dapto and surrounding areas. However, we believe that before a decision is finalised, all reasonable alternative locations should be thoroughly assessed and openly considered.

The impact of the current proposal extends far beyond the homes identified for acquisition.

More than 50 households could be forced to relocate at the same time during an ongoing housing crisis. Many of those affected are elderly residents who have lived in their homes for decades, alongside families with children who are deeply connected to local schools, sporting clubs, workplaces and support networks.

For those residents whose homes are not acquired, many still face significant impacts, including increased traffic noise, large retaining walls and infrastructure located directly beside or in front of their properties, and potential impacts on property values and amenity.

This proposal has the potential to permanently change the character of our neighbourhood and the lives of the people who call it home.

We are calling on Transport for NSW, our elected representatives and decision-makers to undertake a transparent review of alternative ramp locations, including options such as Kanahooka and Yallah, and to clearly demonstrate why the current location has been selected over other potential alternatives.

We believe the community deserves answers to important questions:

• Have all alternative locations been fairly and comprehensively assessed?
• How do the social and community impacts of each option compare?
• What consideration has been given to avoiding the acquisition of more than 50 homes?
• Could public funds currently allocated towards property acquisitions, compensation, legal costs and relocation support be better invested into alternative solutions and broader infrastructure improvements for the Dapto region?

This petition is not about opposing progress.

It is about ensuring that major infrastructure decisions are made with full consideration of their impact on local communities and that every reasonable effort is made to avoid unnecessary displacement of families and long-term residents.

We ask Transport for NSW and our elected representatives to listen to the voices of affected residents, carefully review alternative locations, and ensure that the final decision reflects not only engineering and traffic outcomes, but also the people whose lives will be permanently affected.

By signing this petition, you are supporting a fair, transparent and community-focused assessment of all available options before irreversible decisions are made.

Together, we can ensure that the future of our community is shaped with care, respect and consideration for the people who live here.