Residents push back against another plan for new pickleball courts

Residents in the Brisbane suburb of Lota have voiced strong opposition to plans for new pickleball courts at Cox Park, citing concerns over noise, safety, and disruption to their daily lives. The proposed facility, comprising a large concrete slab with painted lines marking four courts, is scheduled to be installed at the south end of the park starting Monday, July 27, at a cost of approximately $250,000. The project has sparked controversy among local residents, with around 40 individuals gathering at the park on Sunday to express their grievances. This is not the first time such a proposal has faced backlash in the Brisbane area. Just months prior, similar plans for pickleball courts in Holland Park West were halted due to community pushback. The current proposal is backed and funded by local Liberal National Party (LNP) representative Alex Givney, who has been vocal in supporting the initiative. Despite efforts to engage with residents, many claim the consultation process fell short of expectations. Alan McFadyen, a resident living adjacent to the park on Bethania Street, expressed his concerns regarding the location. He stated that while he does not oppose the idea of pickleball courts in the area, the choice of Cox Park seems ill-suited. McFadyen described the park as too small, swampy, and uncomfortably close to residential properties. His comments reflect a broader sentiment among neighbors who feel the site is unsuitable for such a facility. Registered nurse Vivienne Treagus, residing opposite the park on Richard Street, raised additional worries about the potential impact on her quality of life. She mentioned that the proximity of the courts to her home might interfere with her sleep, particularly during her work shifts. Treagus emphasized her fear of living under constant vigilance, worrying about the safety of children in the vicinity. Her concerns align with those of other residents who argue that the existing netball courts, often used by young children on bikes and scooters, should remain intact. Signs erected by several households near the park call for more thorough consultation before any construction begins. In emails obtained by local media, Givney apologized for not adequately communicating the plan to residents but maintained that the project would proceed regardless. She acknowledged that the replacement of the old netball courts with new ones had not been anticipated to cause such community concern. Givney noted that she had met with some residents earlier in the year, and the council claimed these discussions influenced the final design of the proposal. Susan Norman, a pickleball player affiliated with the Wynnum Pickleball Club, attended the Sunday meeting and defended the need for a dedicated court in the area. She highlighted that the sport is popular among older residents, with nearly half of local participants aged over 50. One club member is even approaching 90 years old. While acknowledging the concerns of some residents, Norman suggested that if the courts were located in her own backyard without proper consultation, she might share similar reservations. Members of the Wynnum Pickleball Club currently utilize a nearby school's facilities when available, underscoring the lack of adequate infrastructure in the region. Norman stressed that a permanent solution is essential for the community, despite the current location's drawbacks. Some residents have questioned whether the project complies with standard development requirements, pointing out that a formal application was not submitted. The Brisbane City Council responded by stating that the zoning classification for sports and recreational purposes allows for such projects without the need for a separate approval. The office of Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner reiterated that the process had been transparent and that extensive dialogue with the community had taken place.