ROCKDALE Council has reversed a decision to close a dangerous section of beach at Dolls Point where a child drowned nearly two years ago.
Instead, new signs warning swimmers the beach drops suddenly into deep water have been erected.
They complement other signs, containing a range of advice about "do's and don'ts" that were erected last summer.
Ayman Ksebe, five, drowned in the dangerous waters in December, 2013 and two girls were pulled from the same area in January this year.
The council subsequently passed a motion put by Labor councillor Bill Saravinovski that the section of beach be closed.
When the Leader asked why this had not taken place, a council spokesman said, "people are entitled to enjoy the beach safely".
"In respect to the motion to close the beach, council has taken on board legal advice, and additional signs will be in place before the next swimming season."
The first two new signs, warning of a "sudden drop off" have been attached to piers on the dysfunctional swimming baths, which contain barely any water.
They are a long distance from the beach at the end of the sand spit, where the drowning and other near-tragedy took place.
The council spokesman said the signs had been posted "in areas with high visibility".
He said there were several warning signs, which were "the end result of extensive consultation and adherence to internationally accepted standards".
"We are constantly monitoring the situation and council is committed to do what it can to ensure everyone's safety."
CHANGE OF PLAN
Councillor Bill Saravinovski was surprised to be told by the Leader the section of beach would not be closed.
‘‘My motion was that the beach be closed and I have heard nothing that changes the situation,’’ he said.
Carina El Sauda, who led a community campaign after the drowning, said she had heard nothing from the council about a change of plans.
What do you think of the council reversing its decision?
