It was scheduled for Sunday, October 6, but the Long Jetty Festival has been cancelled after Central Coast Council refused to give it the green light.
Council has refused the festival’s development application for a whole list of reasons, including concerns by the local police, despite Council being named as a “proud sponsor” of the event which last year attracted thousands.
The Council concerns included the festival adversely affecting residential amenity, placing unreasonable demands on safety and security services, traffic and pedestrian impacts, parking, public drop off and pick up zones and the timing of the event over the October long weekend coinciding with the football grand final.
Council said the festival failed to provide detail in the Transport Management Plan in relation to delays and contingencies for the road network, the single proposed parking area 2.5km away, holding only 360 cars with one shuttle bus for an event anticipating to attract 20,000 attendees.
Tuggerah Lakes Police District said the Long Jetty Festival presented a significant challenge for local police, who must manage the increased workload associated with the event.
“Officers will be responsible with maintaining public safety in large crowds, a role that demands vigilance, constant monitoring and a quick response to any potential threat,” police said in a submission to Council.
“Additionally, the presence of three licensed premises within the festival’s footprint adds another layer of complexity.
“Monitoring these venues for compliance with alcohol regulations, preventing disorderly conduct and responding to potential incidents demands substantial resources and attention.”
Police said the cumulative effect of these responsibilities could lead to considerable strain on the police force.
“The Long Jetty Hotel, The Savoy Hotel and Liquorland are expected to face significant challenges due to the upcoming event, as road closures on Pacific St, Long Jetty are set to be enforced starting Saturday October 5,” the police said.
A business in the area questioned the closure of Pacific St for the festival and police said local residents who couldn’t get to their homes would use the street for parking.
The increased traffic congestion and road closures lead to significant delays and safety hazards for both motorists and pedestrians, police said.
“Coral St carpark will be parked-out by Friday due to holiday stays in The Entrance,” police said.
“The fact that the organisers have even nominated Coral St carpark would indicate they have no idea about the increased population of The Entrance over a long weekend and have not considered this with the selection of the date of October 6.”
The Dreggs and Goteria were due to play at the popular festival which features hundreds of stalls and buskers and other amusements.
Coast News has been unable to contact festival organisers for comment.
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