EVERYONE is now hopefully on the same page when it comes to fencing and the use of NATA Oval as it relates to the ongoing streetscaping project on the Narooma Flat.
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Consultants employed by Eurobodalla Shire Council suggested one option would be to replace the existing chain-link fence around the oval with a more aesthetically pleasing white picket fence.
Even though it was only a suggestion, it upset Animal Welfare League members who had only recently lobbied council to install the new fence to make the oval secure for its dog training activities.
Deputy mayor Neil Burnside said all the heated debate and petition were counterproductive as council early on had determined not to proceed with the picket fence option once the opposition was voiced.
“There was never ‘a plan’ to replace the current NATA Oval fence, but a consultant's proposal for the streetscaping of the new section of highway, in which they included, off their own bat, and unsolicited by anyone acting for the council, an idea to introduce a picket fence,” he said.
“The process the council adopted in assessing what was best for the streetscaping was entirely appropriate, inclusive, democratic and fair.”
The Narooma News on Sunday met with deputy mayor Neil Burnside, AWL spokesperson Daiva Ceicys and Narooma youth committee member Ben Potter, who had taken an interest in the matter writing letters and making submissions.
Young Ben said the youth committee following a meeting determined it would like to see the NATA oval area used more by the community for various events.
Ideas could be to have more sports days and or concerts with grandstand seating an option.
Ms Ceicys said the AWL too would love to see the oval/park put to better use, although technically it was not big enough to be sporting “oval”.
“It would be fantastic if more children could use it as it is a safe and secure environment,” she said.
She did point out that Narooma Area Tourist Association that the area was named after was long defunct and perhaps council could organise a renaming competition.
Clr Burnside said any additional plans for the oval area would need to come in future proposals as the current streetscaping plan only allowed for a slight realignment of the existing fence at the visitor centre to make room for a play area.