Funfields has been given the green light to increase its visitor numbers, but the amusement park will now close its doors at 6pm instead of at sunset.
Last week, councillors voted to allow the Whittlesea fun park to amend its permit to allow 4600 people, plus season pass holders, to visit it at any one time.
Funfields’ original permit – which was issued in 1984 – capped visitor numbers at 450.
Manager John Verga applied to change the permit as visitor numbers were regularly exceeding the permitted level.
The application attracted 10 objections, with nearby residents concerned about increased traffic on Plenty Road and Funfields’ ability to provide parking for so many people. The application also sought to change the opening hours to maintain a consistent closing time across the year, and permission to use a public announcement system for emergency information and “reasonable levels” of background music.
Residents also raised concerns about the use of a PA system, fearing it would increase noise from the park.
Cr Ricky Kirkham said he understood residents’ concerns but it was important the council supported the application because Funfields was a significant contributor to the Whittlesea economy.
“I think we need to support this enterprise as it is a big employer and a very good corporate citizen,” he said.
“The park has been there quite a long time and we have to respect it.”
Cr Mary Lalios said allowing the park to play background music made sense.
“It is a fun park and it is called Funfields for a reason,” she said.
“It is great that we have such a great facility in the City of Whittlesea.”
