Carpark closed for investigation into ‘structural integrity’
WESTPOINT has closed half of its carpark indefinitely to investigate ‘structural issues’, saying the ‘safety and wellbeing’ of the community is its biggest priority.
Blacktown
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HALF of the parking spots at Westpoint are closed indefinitely following the discovery of “structural” issues within large sections of the carpark.
The centre made the “proactive” decision to close half of the carpark on Friday, August 3, in order to investigate its “structural integrity”.
Centre manager Agata Rynkiewicz on Thursday said the move was “taken swiftly in response to advise we received from specialist consultants”.
“The safety and wellbeing of our Westpoint community is always our overriding priority,” she said in a statement.
The decision was made following a routine inspection of the site, a spokesman said.
Black wire fencing has been erected on all levels of the carpark — including hundreds of parking spots — with the areas effected stretching from the centre court to Balmoral St.
The exits on Balmoral St are closed, as are two entries and exits on Alpha St.
Shoppers have expressed outrage at the situation, with many vowing to take their business elsewhere until it is rectified.
Others said parking should be free until it was fixed and the closure had created a traffic “nightmare” in the CBD.
“People are having trouble just getting to work. Blacktown is a no go zone at the moment,” Ann Buckman said.
Rita Sarno said: I won’t be coming there until it’s finished, going to Seven Hills or Mt Druitt. They should never have left it get to this stage.”
Westpoint has announced it will introduce a free five-hour parking period for customers while the issue persists.
“The centre and all other carparks remain open as usual,” Ms Rynkiewicz said.
“The investigations are continuing and we do not presently know how long the carpark will remain closed.”
Ms Rynkiewicz said the centre should know more “by the end of August”. She thanked customers, staff and retailers for their patience during the “unanticipated” closure.
Traffic has been redirected to other entries and exists on Alpha St. Westpoint has issued warnings to customers about traffic issues and the reduced car spots.
Blacktown Mayor Stephen Bali said the council was working with the centre to minimise the closure’s impact on customers and businesses.
“I encourage people to continue to support our Blacktown retailers and be patient during the period affected,” he said.
Cr Bali said the council would offer alternative parking options within the CBD.