“The Entrance suffered more than most during the state-wide lock-down due to its traditional reliance on the visitor economy,” Mr Mehan said.
“The coming school holidays is an opportunity to regain some of the loss we endured during the lock-down but, more importantly, it’s an opportunity to win new business for the township by showing families who visit our region that The Entrance is a great place to return to after travel restrictions are lifted.”
“There are many small things we can do to make sure visitors see the best of The Entrance and are more likely to return.”
“Central Coast Council needs to support our local economy. Business needs to be open and have a COVID-19 Safe Plan in place. Locals need to set a good example to visitors by practicing social distancing and wearing a face-mask in crowded areas.”
Mr. Mehan made the following suggestions:
- The gateway to The Entrance and Long Jetty tourist strip is the roundabout at the intersection of Central Coast Hwy and Wyong Rd. It used to be a garden but it's now a bed of weeds. Council needs to fix it this week.
- Extra parking and conveniences are always welcome during the holidays. The Entrance has many vacant development sites and poorly maintained private carparks such as Ebbtide Mall. Council needs to ensure vacant sites are open for parking, are neat, and tidy. Consideration should also be given to providing portable toilets and washing facilities in these locations.
- Keep the township clean. Extra staff to help visitors and keep the footpaths clean will go a long way to making sure families return.
- “If we get this right, we will have a successful and safe holiday and families will return to The Entrance,” Mr Mehan said.
