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Newcastle Herald
Newcastle Herald
National
Max McKinney

More than 110 public playgrounds in Lake Macquarie closed

PLAY NO MORE: All Lake Macquarie playgrounds are now off-limits.

Playgrounds, skate parks, swimming baths and a range of other public facilities in Lake Macquarie have been declared off-limits by the council in line with federal recommendations.

More than 110 playgrounds are now closed across the local government area.

Public barbecues, outdoor exercise equipment, Speers Point dog park, Speers Point Park's popular variety playground and Pasterfield Sports Complex at Cameron Park are among the other facilities shut to reduce the spread of COVID-19.

"No-one wants to introduce such widespread measures, but in these unprecedented circumstances they are necessary," the council's built and natural assets director David Hughes said.

"The facilities closing encourage congregations of people in large numbers or enclosed spaces, and that's something we must avoid."

Facilities will be locked up and the electrical supply for public barbecues switched off. Signs will be erected at other open playgrounds.

"We can't physically shut off every playground and other facility that falls under these new arrangements, but we urge the community to take heed of them, for everyone's sake," Mr Hughes said.

Social distancing measures should adhered to on shared pathways, jetties, boat ramps and green spaces.

"We will continue to review the situation and take advice from the Australian Government and NSW Health, making decisions accordingly," Mr Hughes said.

"Obviously, the aim is to get these facilities reopened to the community as soon as possible, but right now the absolute priority is public health and reducing the spread of COVID-19 in our community."

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