Locals rage as Aussie council tells kids to 'consider their noise' at playground
A council sign has asked kids to play quietly at a recently upgraded park.
The sound of children's laughter is hard to avoid at suburban playgrounds. But it seems the joyous sound of happiness is no longer allowed at a park in Brisbane's northwest, and it has left some parents gobsmacked.
A sign erected in the playground at Newmarket tells users to "consider noise levels and disruption" when using the play equipment, ostensibly aimed at young kids who use the equipment. The playground, situated in Spencer Park, and surrounded by houses, is typical of any other public area available for residents to use — although now they apparently must do so quietly.
"Users are requested to consider noise levels and disruption generated by use of this facility," the sign reads.
The newly renovated playground sits with a "popular multi-purpose recreational space" and includes "a modern playground tower, modern playground equipment and a shade sail" for children to enjoy, the council's website states. But the new addition has riled up locals after a photo of the signage was shared on Facebook this week.
'Stupid' council rule slammed
In a local group, many expressed disbelief at the directive from council. "I class it as a council joke, so stupid," one resident fumed. "Are three-year-olds reading this and being held accountable? Good grief," said another.
"Construction, lawnmowers and traffic noise is fine. No kids laughing or having fun allowed, even where a playground is provided," a third commented.
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One resident appeared chuffed by the new noise restrictions though, saying, "have you ever heard screaming children at 7am on a Sunday?" but another hit back to say, "much rather a kid cheerful laughing at 7am rather than roadworks at 11pm". Regardless, many agreed noise is "all part of living in the city".
Councillor calls for sign to be 'removed immediately'
A spokesperson from Brisbane City Council confirmed to Yahoo News Australia that the sign "was installed by a Council officer following a resident complaint". However, it was done "without consultation" with the local Councillor Andrew Wines who on Thursday "asked for it to be removed immediately".
Parents rage over playground designs
Recently, a $2 million playground upgrade in Collingwood, Melbourne attracted the ire of residents who compared the new version to a "prison. Meanwhile, the safety of a disability playground in Sydney was questioned by parents who slammed the unusual design. In both scenarios, the council stepped in to reassure its residents by defending the playground designs.
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