Austinmer’s Brickyard Point to get permanent safety fencing

The temporary fencing at Brickyard Point, Austinmer

BRICKYARD Point at Austinmer will have a safer space to soak up the views with plans being finalised for a slimline safety fence.

Wollongong City Council installed a temporary fence at the point which has grown in popularity since the new Headlands Hotel opened in 2016 at Austinmer.

Council’s Director Infrastructure and Works Andrew Carfield said after a number of reports of near misses by children playing near the cliff-top edge a temporary fence was installed and a number of safety inspections were undertaken.

“We also reviewed other coastal sites to see how risk is minimised in similar situations,” he said.

“Taking into consideration the height and the sheer cliff face of Brickyard Point, we believe the best way to reduce the risk of an accident at this site is to install a permanent fence that is designed to discourage climbing and we will do this in a way that is as visually unobtrusive as possible.

“We know that not everyone will agree with this option, but we believe it’s the best way to keep everyone safe in this area.”

Council has started work on gaining the necessary approvals to undertake work in the sensitive location. In the meantime, Council will move the existing temporary fence to align with the proposed placement of the permanent fence.

The new position will put the fence behind the first line of planting in the garden bed, which Council says will help reduce its visual impact.

Mr Carfield said the permanent fence will be a slimline design, which will work to minimise its obtrusiveness.

“The timing for the permanent fencing work will depend on gaining necessary heritage approvals,” he said.

“However, I’d like to assure everyone that we’re taking the right steps to protect residents, visitors and energetic children when visiting this popular spot.”

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