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Wake Up shoots for a simple solution to netball controversy
The long-running controversy over where to locate the Manly Warringah netball competition may soon come to an end with an all-round solution proposed by independent candidates from the local group “Wake Up Warringah”.
The straightforward plan would see the netballers effectively “swap sites” with the nearby softball venue, which is also located on Abbott Road at Curl Curl.
The plan provides netballers with 32 hard-surface courts and 40 in total. It also includes the addition of a multiuse, indoor venue providing two additional courts.
“This solution could deliver a win for everyone,” said Michael Regan, who is running for Mayor in the upcoming Warringah Council elections under the Wake Up banner.
“The netballers get the number of courts they want and the residents get their green space back. By moving softball further down Abbott Road, we would reclaim the existing bitumen there and grass them as new softball diamonds.”
“The Administrator took five long years to come up with a result that no one likes,” said Mr Regan.
“By using local knowledge, common sense and innovative thinking, Wake Up has come up with an answer that we believe delivers the best result for everyone,” said Mr Regan.
The idea was devised by local architect, Dr Helen Wilkins, who is a Wake Up candidate for B Ward. She explained some of the scheme’s other benefits, to both local sport and to Curl Curl residents.
"The softball games would generate less traffic and parking problems further along Abbott Road where the residents are,” said Dr Wilkins.
“Parking for netball at the new site could be provided nearby in the grounds of Freshwater High and the Manly Selective Campus. In return, the two schools could use the new indoor sport facility during the week, maximizing the community benefit.”
“After seven long years, the end of this controversy may well be in sight,” said Mr Regan.
“The next Council must provide safe, adequate and well-maintained sport facilities, but it also needs to protect the amenity of our neighbourhoods. Rather than forcing a reluctant compromise on each of the parties involved at Curl Curl, this plan to just swap the softball and netball sites takes a well-aimed shot at getting the solution right for the whole community.”
For further information, contact:
Michael Regan
C Ward and Mayoral Candidate
Wake Up Warringah
Tel: 0425 220 618
Email: Michael@wakeup.net.au
NETBALL UPDATE - AUGUST 25th 2008
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