East Esplanade: Petition to save ‘The Office’ as a drinks spot gets 5200 signatures
A councillor who says he’s got threatening emails from people who want to be allowed to drink in a public park, says he won’t give in to bullies.
Manly
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More than 5200 people have signed a petition to allow drinking to continue at a sunset beauty spot in Manly, known by locals as ‘The Office’.
The Save ‘The Office’ petition was set up by Alexander Hunter in support of people being able to “enjoy a sunset drink with friends and family” at East Esplanade Reserve.
It follows Cr Pat Daley’s motion calling for the park to be turned into a 24/7 alcohol free space.
Drinking is currently allowed between 8am and 8pm.
The issue will be debated at the next council meeting.
The petition says, “Pat, don’t be the hero that ruins Manly for the rest of us.
“It goes without saying the outcry to follow will come at you thick and fast if you don’t.”
Many who have signed the petition say they go there with family for a quiet drink and act respectfully.
But Cr Pat Daley said since the issue blew up he has been sent some “threatening emails” over the issue.
“These emails are coming from people from all over the northern beaches and other parts of Sydney.
“However I will not be bullied or intimidated.
“I am pressing ahead with my motion. We need to make it easier for the police and the council rangers to carry out their duties not harder.”
He said a 24/7 ban was needed “urgently for major health reasons during the COVID pandemic”.
“Clearly East Esplanade is now not just for locals wanting to have a quiet glass of wine or beer watching the sunset,” he said.
“I don’t oppose that and I never have.
“However, that said it is clear that East Esplanade next to Manly Wharf is now being used as a meeting place by large groups from all over the northern beaches and other parts of Sydney.
“In many cases these groups are consuming large quantities of alcohol.
“There is no responsible service of alcohol protocols on East Esplanade like in hotels.
“In many cases social distancing is not being followed. Nor are there adequate toilet facilities.
“The front yards of nearby homes are being used as toilets. Is this the Manly we want?
“This area next to the Manly Wharf is supposed to be the gateway to the northern beaches.
“What is happening on East Esplanade is sending a message to young people that it is OK to drink large quantities of alcohol in parks and public places and as result the problem continues to spread to other areas of Manly.”
However, Cr Candy Bingham told the Manly Daily last week that it was a lovely spot for families to watch the sunset and have a glass of wine and that there was little trouble last year.
She said council rangers have the power to confiscate alcohol if necessary and they are out in greater numbers at the weekend to make sure the area is cleared after 8pm.