Some of the much anticipated and recently installed permanent signage at South Lawson Park has been deliberately removed in an act of vandalism.
The permanent aluminium signs that have been removed are those surrounding the fenced dog off leash area.
New signage was an important last step to complete this project and inform the community of the conditions of use for each area of the park, including the dog off-leash area.
This is a matter for the police and is being investigated. In the meantime, Council is producing new, replacement signage which is anticipated to be installed as soon as possible.
Blue Mountains Mayor, Cr Mark Greenhill, said: “This act of intentional vandalism is nothing less than a criminal act. Council’s responded to the community’s call for better signage at the park and no sooner has it been installed than someone has deliberately worked to take it down.
“These were permanent, aluminium signs that aren’t just stuck up with a bit of sticky tape – it takes some effort and forethought to remove them from the fence.
“It’s extremely frustrating for everyone who visits and enjoys South Lawson Park, as well as a complete waste of ratepayers’ money. These signs are all about keeping people advised and safe in how they use the park.
“We’ve had great feedback from the community on the recent park upgrades which have opened up this fantastic space to more members of the community. We’ve seen people living with disability using the new shared path, as well as lots of young families with babies in prams and small children.
“Part of ensuring this can happen safely is providing clear direction for park users with dogs, on where they can walk on or off leash.
“Council is now reproducing the missing signs. Additionally, extra signage packages are also being placed into production to further inform South Lawson Park users of the park’s history and surrounding vegetation.
“If anyone sees any suspicious behaviour at this site, please call the local police immediately.”
Having dogs on leash – outside the new off-leash area at South Lawson Park – is a requirement of NSW Law.
Under section 13(1) of the Companion Animals Act – A dog that is in a public place must be under the effective control of some competent person by means of an adequate chain, cord or leash that is attached to the dog and that is being held by (or secured to) the person.
Rangers can issue on the spot fines – ranging from $330 up to $1760 for Dangerous or Menacing dogs not under effective control. The maximum Court imposed fine, if found guilty of this, is $1,100.
For more information on the South Lawson Park upgrades, visit: https://yoursay.bmcc.nsw.gov.au/lawson
Photo: Temporary signage at South Lawson Park. The permanent aluminium signage has been removed by vandals but will be replaced as soon as possible.
