Residents are calling for the urgent reopening of the locked carpark at Fagan Park, Point Clare.
Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch said Central Coast Council locked the entry gate to the carpark three months ago with no warning, forcing visitors to park on narrow Jirrah Ave or on busy Brisbane Water Dr.
This is resulting in blocked resident driveways and safety concerns.
“On October 14, Council advised that staff were in the process of obtaining information on the viability of installing a one-way barrier,” she said.
“This would allow the entry gate to be locked at sunset, restricting any further entry, whilst allowing cars parked in the carpark to leave at their leisure and not be locked in.
“However, Council has failed to provide a timeline or any assurance to the community when action may be taken or (or any) alternative courses of action.”
Tesch said the park was widely used, with large grassy areas used for both sport and leisure, pathways for walking and bike riding, play equipment, toilet facilities and shade.
“Fagan Park is a fantastic facility that is used by a wide range of community members and should be accessible to all,” she said.
“Members of the Point Clare community are calling on Central Coast Council to take action with the view to allowing members of the community to use this beautiful facility with safety.
“The closing of the gate has resulted in visitors of the park and residents being forced to park on the street, which has resulted in driveways being blocked and creating safety hazards.
“I thank the members of the community who have raised this issue with me and have conveyed their disappointment at the lack of action.”
Tesch said residents had justified concerns about getting prams, wheelchairs, walking frames and dogs out of the car onto the roadside – a move which seemed “unnecessary and dangerous”.
Resident Glenn Chapman has launched a petition calling on Council to take action, which has attracted about 600 signatures so far.
“Fagan Park is a public park, and the community should be allowed to use its carpark,” he said.
“The carpark is important for parents with small children visiting the playground.
“Without it, parents are forced to take children out on a busy street with the associated risks.
“With an aged care facility across the road and many residents with mobility issues, many visitors are currently unable to enjoy the park as a direct result of the gate being locked.
“We need these areas to remain accessible for all to use.
“This includes free parking around it.”
Tesch is calling on Council to listen to the community and move forward in finding a solution.
Central Coast Council has been approached for comment.