North Burge Rd reserve to be 'fenced'
Central Coast Council will budget to install "sandstone fencing" around the reserve at the corner of North Burge Rd and Brickwharf Rd, following damage to the reserve on Saturday, May 3.
Local resident Mr Peter O'Meagher said the damage was done when the Engine Room, the old Sporties Club, held an event.
"Despite the water-logged situation of the reserve, vehicles were again parked on the ground."
He said that the following morning the damage was evident.
It included damage to one of the four trees that Council and the community had cared for over a few years.
"This is another of repeated examples of abuse of this vunerable Council-community asset which has become a venue for 4WD hoons to demonstrate their skills in driving in mud."
Mr O'Meagher said that, some time ago, a "fence barrier" around the reserve was removed.
"The vast majority of Council managed-protected areas in this area are protected from mindless destruction by log pole and log bar barriers which are very effective," he said.
"Council has decided to attempt to solve this long running problem by requiring commercial event organisers to organise protection of the reserve.
"Unfortunately, this decision though praiseworthy is failing and will continue to fail as damage occurs randomly but regularly."
Council's parks and reserves team leader Mr Russell Clews responded to a letter from Mr O'Meagher stating: "I have included the installation of sandstone fencing in the budget for the next financial year to help prevent further damage.
"Council staff will endeavour to roll out and top dress the affected areas once the site dries out.
"We also encourage you to continue reporting any such behaviour to the police to help address the issue more effectively."
SOURCE:
Media release, 7 May 2025
Peter O'Meagher, Woy Woy