Council votes to close access way

The Shire of Narrogin Council unanimously passed a motion to authorise the closure of a troubled pedestrian access way between Narrakine Road and Sydney Hall Way.

A resident raised the issue with the Shire in June, stating they had concerns for the safety of their children, because the PAW is a hotspot for antisocial behaviour.

“Disruptive people jumping and climbing to peer over the fence disrupting privacy” and “after hours disturbances of what is assumed intoxicated people, yelling, screaming, throwing rocks and walking up driveways” were specific antisocial behaviours cited to the Shire.

Public comments were made to the council for consideration of their vote, majority of which were in favour.

Residents opposed to the closure of the PAW stated that if the motion was passed, walks to a park on Sydney Hall Way from their homes would take longer.

“Have lived in Sydney Hall Way for a year and have not witnessed any issues with the safety or wellbeing of their or other residents,” one public submission read.

While those in favour supported the indication that the PAW was drawing unwanted behaviour to the area.

“(I) supports the proposed closure of this laneway, and believe it will help make the Cul–de–sac a safer place to live,” a submission in favour read.

“(My home) has been broken into twice and believe the intruders have entered through the walkway and made their escape the same way on both occasions.”

While the Shire has authorised the closure of this PAW, the decision will ultimately be up to the Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage.

The Department will now liaise with service provides such as Western Power, the Water Corporation and Telstra about existing infrastructure in the PAW.

Buyers for the LAW must also be found, with proceeds made from any land purchase going to the State Government.