Council’s community centres and halls set to reopen
Council-managed community centres and halls across the Shire will progressively reopen as of Tuesday 23 June as COVID-19 restrictions are eased throughout the State.
The community centres and halls will reopen in-line with the NSW Government’s easing of social restrictions however Council’s Assets Manager Stace Lewer said the reopening came with stringent conditions.
“We’ve been contacting our regular hall users and hirers and informing them of the changes that are necessary for us to reopen the facilities,” he said.
“They include limiting the number of participants to 20 people at any time, keeping the kitchens closed and maintaining a cleaning schedule.”
Mr Lewer said all user groups were also required to submit a COVID-Safe Plan before use.
“As per NSW Public Health Safety Guidelines, we need to receive and approve an agreed COVID-Safe Plan before users can return to the halls,” he said. “This plan details how they propose to comply with the Government guidelines.”
COVID-Safe Plans for the use of Council-managed community centres and halls can be submitted to Council’s Facilities Team at facilities@wsc.nsw.gov.au.
“Alternatively, if any group has any questions or concerns they can discuss them through with the team on phone 4868 0888,” Mr Lewer added.
Prior to the community centres and halls being reopened staff of Council will first conduct an onsite inspection and erect new health and safety signage.
“We know that our community centres and halls are important meeting places for a host of business, sport, recreational and social groups,” Mr Lewer said. “That’s why we’re managing their reopening in a staged approach to balance the safety of our community while working together to get back to normal activities.”
The reopening of Wingecarribee Shire Council’s community centres and halls follows the prior reopening of its playgrounds, skateparks and outdoor exercise equipment. Council’s Moss Vale Civic Centre public Customer Service Area, Bowral Central Library and the Southern Highlands Welcome Centre have also reopened their doors.
“We thank all of our community groups for their continued cooperation and look forward to welcoming them back,” Mr Lewer added.
For the latest COVID-19 updates, advice and restrictions visit www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19.