Residents not all in tent on circus

A CIRCUS proposed for a park in Kallaroo has raised logistical concerns from some residents.

Nearby residents said hosting The Great Moscow Circus at Belrose Park in Kallaroo was not ideal given the lack of parking and the park only having a small toilet facility.

Residents also raised concerns about attendees parking across the road at Westfield Whitford City shopping centre and having to cross four lanes of a major road to get to the park.

Joondalup chief executive Garry Hunt said the City was still assessing the application from The Great Moscow Circus, which plans to put on 12 shows from April 4 to 14.

Mr Hunt said to be considered for approval, event organisers must comply with all relevant local laws and regulations including the Health Act, which covers the sufficient provision of toilets, egress and emergency management arrangements, and noise.

He said it must also meet the terms and conditions of hire, which includes financial responsibility for any damage incurred at the park, and the conditions of the City’s Circus Policy which prevents the use of exotic animals.

To address parking concerns, Mr Hunt said the circus operators had proposed guests park at the shopping centre and walk about 100m across to the venue, with staff to “marshal attendees to and from the event site”.

“The City would also undertake targeted patrols during circus show times to ensure compliance with local parking laws,” Mr Hunt said.

“In making its determination, the City will balance both the impact of the event on local residents with the benefits it would bring to the wider community.”

Circus marketing manager Mark Edgley said they would comply with “any regulations and rules” set by the City.

“The safety of our guests is paramount and we will do whatever we need to ensure they can park at the shopping centre and safely walk to the venue,” he said.

He said they would bring in their own toilets and had ensured evening shows would finish at 9.40pm to reduce any issues with noise.

Mr Hunt said if approved, the set-up would start from April 1.

The Great Moscow Circus is currently touring Perth, having already set up in Madeley, Stirling, Rockingham and Burswood.