Concerns over anti-social behaviour at Lake Haven library

Central Coast Council will look at all options in relation to Lake Haven Library, including adjusted opening hours, as escalating anti-social behaviour rings alarm bells.

“I am increasingly concerned by the ongoing public disturbances outside Lake Haven Library that are risking the safety of community members and Council staff,” Administrator Rik Hart said.

“About two weeks ago, staff had to close the library early, due to a significant public safety incident outside the front door of the library involving around 40 people.

“A fight broke out and Council staff acted immediately as they helped to shelter a number of people in the library during this incident.

“Thank you to the security guards who helped contain the incident and supported library staff and members of the public to safely leave the library via an alternative exit.”

Hart said the incident was just one of 34 which have occurred over the past 12 months, with 70 per cent of incidents involving local high school students.

“Council staff have reported that these incidents are escalating and often move from outside the library to inside the library,” he said.

“Council has a number of measures in place to manage safety of staff and visitors to Lake Haven library.

“These include ongoing safety training for staff, daily security guard patrols from 1pm, close liaison with the surrounding shopping centres, schools, local community and the police and public transport authorities.”

Hart said Council was working with the local bus companies to trial moving the existing bus stop at the entrance of the library further around the bus exchange, with disturbances often centred on people congregating at the bus stop.

“All these measures are a necessary response to ensure the safety of staff and visitors, however, they are at a cost to the community,” he said.

“It goes without saying that Council could otherwise be spending this money to improve its services to the community.

“I have asked Council’s CEO to look at all options in relation to Lake Haven Library, including adjusted opening hours.

“As this is a serious matter, nothing is off the table and although relocating or temporarily removing services is a last resort, safety is paramount for staff and library visitors.”

Source:
Central Coast Council Administrator