In 1992, prompted by a hockey club, Willoughby Council resolved to erect floodlights and install a synthetic playing surface on the OH Reid Oval. Local residents were given just 7 days notice of the impending work.
Led by local Garry Crossley (RIP) the local community mounted a campaign of opposition to the proposal. Eventually, Willoughby Council caved in and the proposal was dropped.
(Read the story of the 1992 campaign)
Now some twenty-six years later, Willoughby Council is again considering putting floodlights (and likely a synthetic surface on the oval. This time there has not been any notification given to residents. Fortunately, the Chatswood West Ward Progress Association came across the proposal mentioned in a report to Council regarding Bales Park in Willoughby. The Association alerted local residents and an organising Committee (Chaired by Phil Sharratt) was quickly convened to oppose the current proposal.
Background
Timeline
Action taken by residents
LIKELY IMPACT OF FLOODLIGHTS
Fauna
Flora
Traffic
Parking
Noise
Light intrusion
Hours of operation
Increased intensity of sporting use
Interface issues
Impact on community use
Impact on dog owners
OTHER INFORMATION
Bales Park
Chatswood West Ward History 