Public reminded of shared duty for parks, beaches
Preserving the health of public spaces is the community’s shared responsibility, the Minister of Public Works and Environment said today.
Jaché Adams told the House of Assembly that his ministry was catching up with routine maintenance and improvements to natural spaces.
The updates included regular cleaning of beaches and repairing park infrastructure, such as the Cacti and Succulent House at the Botanical Gardens.
Mr Adams said maintaining public spaces could not be the sole responsibility of the Government.
He added: “Protecting these shared assets also requires the co-operation of those who use them.”
MPs heard that the Department of Parks had repaired step railings at Mullet Bay Park and Blue Hole Park, while repairs to the Horseshoe Bay boardwalk, fencing at Somerset Long Bay and road markings within the Botanical Gardens will continue over the next few weeks.
Mr Adams said the “fully operational” mechanical beach rake was maintaining some of the island’s most heavily used beaches.
Scheduled beach cleanings will take place every weekend at Somerset Long Bay, Horseshoe Bay, Clearwater Beach, Shelly Bay and John Smith’s Bay.
Mr Adams said equipment would be deployed on an ad hoc basis as required.
The minister added that work on the Cacti and Succulent House was progressing on schedule.
With final electrical works outstanding, he said the project was expected to be complete “no later than September”.
Mr Adams reminded the public that dogs and horses were prohibited from public beaches between April 1 and October 31.
Event organisers were also reminded to apply for permits and to work closely with the parks department.
Small events require applications to be submitted at least five days in advance, while larger events must allow for several months’ notice.
Information on applications can be found online through the government website.
Camping for Cup Match will be allowed at Ferry Point Park, Chaplin Bay, and Higgs and Horseshoe islands for those with valid permits.
Camping in most parks will be allowed without a permit between July 29 and August 2.
Camping will not be permitted at Coney Island, Blue Hole Park, Cooper’s Island Nature Reserve or the dune area behind Jobson’s Cove.
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