The construction of a skate park at Hallidays Point has moved a step closer which MidCoast Council last week voting on its preferred site.
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The majority of councillors were united in their preference to locate the skate part at Wylie Breckenridge Park, Black Head.
Five Hallidays Point residents spoke to councillors about their concerns and objections to the selected locations.
Jennifer McLaren, who lived 200 metres from a proposed site at Diamond Beach pleaded with councillors not to locate it at Diamond Park, claiming the peace and quiet would be shattered.
"I do not have an opposition to having a skate park at Hallidays Point, but I do to Diamond Beach," she said.
"It is too close to residences; it is less than 50 yards from units and near the shops.
"Over the years we have had trouble with teenagers congregating and damaging property."
Years ago I would have been opposed but I am impressed with the culture; the older ones look out for the young ones.
- Judith Pellow
Hallidays Point resident, Simon Duber agreed, there would be a high impact for Diamond Beach.
Speaking on behalf of the community, Mr Duber said he supported the Wylie Park site, but at the same time was concerned up to 10 trees would need to be removed.
However, he said there was a need for a dedicated skate park for the safety of young users.
A survey highlighted 26 per cent of responders rode their bikes, scooters and skateboards on the road, Mr Duber said.
Speaking on behalf of local youngsters, Hallidays Point Public School P&C president, Melinda Orchard said her group received 600 replies to a survey.
From 249 children surveyed, 98 per cent wanted a skate park and 74 per cent of 184 respondents wanted it in Hallidays Point, Ms Orchard said.
The most concerning response showed 70 or 26 per cent of youngsters aged under 13 years rode their bike, skateboard or scooter on the road
There is a need to provide a safe space in the Hallidays Point area, she said.
Long-time resident, Judith Pellow reminded residents of opposition to Tallwoods Estate and Hallidays Shores.
Catch up:
"But, Tallwoods has enhanced the life of our community; it has enriched and contributed to the community.
"Years ago I would have been opposed but I am impressed with the culture; the older ones look out for the young ones.
"I can see a lot of benefits of having it at Hallidays Point."
Councillors wanted to assure members of the community it would work with Black Head Bazaar operators to ensure impact to the monthly markets was limited.
"I am keen for it not to impact on the bazaar and not to impact on the trees," deputy mayor and local resident, Claire Pontin said.
Agreeing a dedicated skate park was needed for the area, she shared a story about her 24-year-old son who spent his 14th birthday in hospital due to an skateboard accident on the road.
"I believe the community has done their due diligence and we should go with Black Head which suits a skate park," Cr Troy Fowler said.
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