🏙️ Rapid population growth raises concerns about infrastructure and societal disappointment

Michelle Clark, in a recent piece, reflects on the rapid population growth in her area, which has hit 85,000 within the last year. She expresses concern about the potential societal disappointment that could arise from the swift increase in population, citing the example of a popular Christmas pageant that sold out within a day, leaving many locals dismayed. Clark argues that the community needs to consider the impact of population growth on infrastructure, which she defines broadly to include not just roads, but also parking lots, sewerage and drains, policing, public transport, grocery stores, schools, and more. 🏢

Clark highlights the need for a comprehensive plan to manage the growth, and criticizes the current approach to development, which often overlooks the importance of infrastructure. She suggests that developers should be required to contribute to the community in meaningful ways, such as providing parks and proper parking lots. Clark also warns about the potential chaos that could ensue in the event of a natural disaster or other crises, given the increased population. She calls for a national development plan and a steering committee with representation from various sectors to manage the growth and development. 🚦

She concludes by emphasizing the importance of having a conversation about the future of the community and planning for the next wave of population growth. She warns that without careful planning, the community could become unrecognizable and disappointment could spread. Clark stresses the need for the community to participate in the discussion and ensure they are planning for their future. 🗣️