As expected, the popular camping area at Kentish Park in north-west Tasmania has now been closed and it is not clear when – and if – it will re-open.
Back in March, the Kentish Council decided to take the step following a serious incident on New Year’s Day incident in which a man allegedly hit a tent containing five people with his car. The campsite has reportedly had a history of anti-social behaviour
It is still not clear what the long-term future of camping in the area is. The Kentish Council however insists there is a possibility that camping could eventually resume.
A council spokesperson told the Advocate newspaper that it had written to the Tasmanian Government seeking a meeting to discuss a way forward for camping at the park.
“A previous decision of the Office of the Economic Regulator determined that Council was required to pass on the costs of providing camping facilities to campers, the spokesperson said. “In practice, this means the more we spend trying to provide or restore camping, the more we will be required to charge campers.”
The next move will depend on the State Government’s response.
“Once Council has a better understanding of the Government’s position, we will be able to look at potential improvements that could see a return of camping in an economically feasible and safe manner,” the spokesperson said.
Kentish Council Mayor Tim Wilson has previously said that the feeling is that councillors do want the site fully re-opened … but that there was much to be discussed before, and if, that could happen.
Kentish Park itself will still be open for day use, with upgrades to some facilities, including the toilets, already planned.
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