Proposal to install parking barriers in Berrima

Background

Wingecarribee Shire Council has received a number of complaints from residents in Berrima claiming that RVs (Recreational Vehicles) are causing parking, residential and visual amenity issues. The capacity of existing caravan parks for larger sized vehicles is limited, resulting in RV travellers parking in illegal spaces. One specific area is the south end of Berrima Bridge (Old Hume Hwy, Berrima). Council has received differing views on the access restrictions, signage and barrier options for this area.

Wingecarribee Shire Council also recognises the significant economic injection into local business and tourism sectors, resulting in a sustained economy. An additional proposal is for an expansion of the Berrima River Reserve (Berrima Camping Reserve) located adjacent to the Wingecarribee River on Oxley Street to accommodate the demand for RV travellers.

For this reason, we will be undertaking consultation with the broader Berrima community that will enable us to make an informed decision, based on what locals want.

Opportunity

Currently within the Berrima Village Road Reserve any camping not within a commercial caravan park or camping ground is not permitted. Wingecarribee Shire Council has an opportunity to manage vehicle access to the slip road adjacent to the south end of Berrima Bridge to limit the environmental impact and community concerns in relation to illegal camping.

Council has also been requested to consider an extension of the Berrima Camping Reserve. The area is Crown Reserve and managed by Council. As part of the consultation process, Council would appreciate your feedback on expansion of the Berrima Camping Reserve.

Proposal #1

Community feedback is invited regarding a proposal to install barriers on the slip road next to Berrima Bridge to prevent trespass by holiday vans. Council wishes to consult with community on two options, both of which provide a diversity of form, function and visual appeal:

Option 1: Sandstone block.

Sandstone is a popular natural stone material because it is 100% recyclable, ‘green’, thermally stable and is environmentally suited to the Australian climate.

Option 2: Copper chrome arsenate (CCA) treated pine, known as Koppers Logs.

Koppers timber poles are ideal because of their proven performance, longevity and structural properties.

Option 3: No barriers to be installed.

Proposal #2

Council would appreciate the community’s feedback on an expansion of the Berrima Camping Reserve. (Any works on the site would need to be in accordance with the Plan of Management, would be subject to Native Title considerations and would require environmental studies to be undertaken to consider the impact of any further development).

Feedback

Council would like to hear your thoughts on these proposals. We value all feedback and suggestions, in particular, what you like and / or dislike. The closing date for submissions regarding this proposal is 24 February 2023.

• The outcomes of the community consultation will be referred to Council’s Executive team to determine if Council should proceed with installation of the proposed barriers and the extension of the existing camping reserve in Oxley Street, respectively.
• Updates and outcomes will be advised through Council’s Your Say Wingecarribee webpage

Next Steps

• Complete consultation
• Analyse feedback for Council consideration
• Subject to broad support - initiate installation of barrier/s and/or commence expansion of campground
• Complete installation; complete expansion

Following acceptance of the barrier/s, installation is estimated to commence on 31 March 2023, according to the level of resources available. Council will require approximately 3 weeks to undertake the works.

Questions
For further information regarding this proposal, please contact: Carmel Foster, Director Corporate Strategy and Resourcing on 02 4868 0888.