FENCES around Yanchep’s playing fields are to deter kangaroos, while the open space is open to sporting groups, residents and their dogs.
Bob Meek has lived in Yanchep for five years and was looking forward to using the ovals when they opened recently.
MORE: Construction of Yanchep’s playing fields finally completed
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READ NOW“I had visions during its construction of taking my grandkids up to kick a ball around or perhaps walk my dog,” he said.
Mr Meek said he was initially “bent out of shape” when he visited the facility and found high fences and locked gates around the ovals.
Wanneroo Mayor Tracey Roberts said the locks would be removed and replaced with spring-loaded auto-closers.
“The fence is only in place to minimise kangaroos damaging the new turf and does not go all around the facility,” she said.
“Access onto the grassed area can be made adjacent to the building.
“The temporary construction fence on the northern verge of McClements Drive has been removed to allow pedestrian access to the facility via the existing path.”
Mrs Roberts said all outdoor facilities were available for the general public to use.
“Sporting clubs or groups hosting activities such as training and game days are required to hire the reserve and if required, accompanying facilities on an annual, seasonal or casual basis,” she said.
“There are no access restrictions for the general public to use the grounds.
“Time curfews are in place for activities and functions held at City of Wanneroo reserves (and) facilities.”
Reserves can be hired from Sundays to Thursdays between 7am and 10pm, or on Fridays and Saturdays from 7am to 11pm.
Mrs Roberts said there were still remediation works needed on the eastern oval and additional works required on the centre cricket wicket.
“A playground and installation of sail shades will commence shortly after the opening,” she said.
The mayor said the City would plant about 300 trees throughout the area, including around the carpark, path network and oval surrounds.
“A variety of species have been selected for the project that are suited to the coastal conditions of the site,” she said.
Mrs Roberts said the March 24 event was open to anyone and there would be a free sausage sizzle, face-painters and an ice cream van.
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