Parks, playgrounds to reopen

Published on 12 May 2020

The city's parks and playgrounds will reopen on Friday after the Government eased some restrictions around COVID-19 (Coronavirus).

At the weekend NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian announced the NSW Government's first stage of easing of restrictions, which allows outdoor gyms and playgrounds to reopen.

Mayor Darriea Turley AM said Council would comply with the easing of restrictions, but urged the community to take a sensible approach to the new relaxed measures.

"I know people are keen to get out of the house with the kids and get some fresh air, but please do so responsibly and keep the health of your family, fellow citizens, and yourself in mind," she said.

"The easing of restrictions comes with its own set of risks including the potential for a second wave of COVID-19.

"As a community we are more isolated and vulnerable than most, so it's important we all remain vigilant regarding social distancing, hand washing, and all other preventative measures."

Council will assist with preventative measures by having staff use new spray packs to disinfect playgrounds and outdoor gym equipment on a regular basis.

Although parks and playgrounds are reopening, Council's General Manager, James Roncon, said the majority of public toilets in the city would still remain closed.

"Our cleaning staff are still facing an immense workload due to the ongoing extra cleaning measures required during the pandemic, so we unfortunately can't reopen all the toilets at this stage,” he said.

"However as of May 15 we will have public toilets available at our busiest areas - Sturt Park, Patton Park, and the 'roundhouse' toilets in the CBD."

Mr Roncon said Council would maintain a steady and gradual approach to reopening its services and facilities, providing the severity of the pandemic continues to diminish.

"I believe we've done a great job as a community in ensuring the virus doesn't get a foothold in Broken Hill," said Mr Roncon.

"We're certainly not going to risk undoing all that progress by throwing the doors open and rushing to reopen everything for the sake of it.

"The health and safety of the community and our staff remains our key focus, so we'll continue to monitor Government advice and take a very cautious approach going forward."