A press conference was held at Lennox Head Alstonville Surf Life Saving Club this morning to announce the near future fate of recreational use on the local coastline.
Following consultation with senior officers of the local NSW Police and Richmond Valley Council, Ballina Shire Council has decided local beaches and car parks will remain open, but 4WD beach access will close from Wednesday, April 8.
Recreational 4-wheel driving on beaches is a non-essential activity, which is why 4WD access to Seven Mile Beach, Lennox Head and South Ballina will be closed from tomorrow and will remain closed until further notice.
This decision has been made in consultation with Ballina Shire Council, NSW Police, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, and Crown Lands.
Beaches and car parks to remain open
‘Beaches and car parks will remain open to support many of our community members wanting to exercise and stay active during this challenging time,’ said Ballina Shire Mayor, David Wright.
Residents visiting the beach can exercise – walk, swim, surf, run or fish – as long as they comply with social distancing requirements. However, other typical beach activities, such as sunbaking, are not allowed.
‘We will continue to work with NSW Police to monitor beach activity to ensure compliance with the social distancing requirements,’ said Cr Wright.
Ballina Shire Council would also like to remind potential Ballina Shire visitors that non-essential travel, including holiday visitation, is not allowed under the current COVID-19 restrictions.
Ballina Shire Council will continue to take all necessary precautions to keep the community and staff safe during this crisis. For more information about Council’s response to the coronavirus pandemic visit ballina.nsw.gov.au.
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