COUNCIL TO SWITCH ON SPORTING FIELD L IGHTS TO GIVE PEOPLE MORE OPPORTUNITIES TO EXERCISE
The lights at five popular sporting fields in the City of Ryde will be switched on every weeknight to help members of the community stay active and adhere to social distancing measures during the coronavirus (COVID -19) outbreak.
Under the trial being und ertaken by the City of Ryde, lights will be in operation between 5pm and 7pm, Monday to Friday at the following fields.
Ryde Park Field 1, Ryde ELS Hall Park 1 and 3, North Ryde Westminster Park, Gladesville Waterloo Park, Marsfield Meadowbank Park Field 9, Meadowbank
All members of the public will be able to use the fields for exercise during these times provided they comply with strict social distancing measures introduced by the Federal Government to help limit the spread of COVID -19.
Under current social distancing measures, people are allowed to exercise in public spaces in groups of no more than two people.
City of Ryde Mayor, Clr Jerome Laxale, said the trial would provide the community with more options and access to open space, while also reducing the number of people using the parks during daylight hours.
"Council has launched this trial to give everyone in the community the chance to safely exercise outdoors, while keeping a safe distance from others," Clr Laxale said.
"While there have been some minor breaches, we are generally happy with the way our community has embraced social distancing measures. This trial will allow more in our community to get much ne eded exercise, however, C ouncil staff will monitor the night time use. If social distancing measures are flouted, we will be forced to turn off the lights.
"I would like to thank Clr Penny Pedersen who lobbied for the trial to be undertaken."
Council 's Rangers will undertake patrols at the five parks throughout the duration of the trial to ensure social distancing measures are being complied with.
Anyone with concerns about breaches of social distancing guidelines are advised to call the NSW Police on 18 00 333 000.
