URGENT UPDATE: A Gold Coast homeowner has been ordered to remove her artificial lawn after an anonymous complaint led to a council ruling, sparking outrage among local residents. Amanda Blair, a resident of Mermaid Beach, was shocked to receive a letter from the Gold Coast City Council demanding she rip up the synthetic turf that has adorned her nature strip for five years.
The council claims that the artificial grass poses a potential safety risk, stating it can become a trip hazard for pedestrians and attract excessive heat. In a statement to Daily Mail Australia, the council emphasized their responsibility to ensure compliance with local laws regarding nature strips. Failure to comply could result in an on-the-spot fine of $834.
Blair expressed her frustration on social media, stating, “Some idiot has decided to ring the council who now demand we rip it up and replace it with real grass.” She noted that the high-quality turf has always remained pristine and well-maintained.
In response to the outcry, many locals have criticized the council for hypocrisy, pointing out that the Gold Coast City Council has utilized artificial turf in multiple public spaces. One resident remarked, “GCCC has fake grass on the nature strip between Burleigh Surf Club and the Pavilion. But that’s OK – hypocrisy.”
The council has announced plans to develop clearer guidelines regarding acceptable materials for nature strips, which will include alternative landscaping options. However, many in the community remain unconvinced, arguing that synthetic turf is becoming increasingly popular due to its low maintenance and aesthetic appeal. Critics have also raised concerns about the environmental impact of real grass, emphasizing its role in oxygen production.
Blair has sought assistance from local representatives, including MP Ray Stevens and her councillor, Nick Marshall, who is advocating on her behalf. Stevens acknowledged the unusual nature of the directive, stating it ultimately remains a council matter but expressed support for Blair’s situation.
As the situation develops, the community is left wondering how the council will balance safety concerns with the desires of residents who prefer low-maintenance landscaping. This ongoing saga reflects a growing tension between local governance and individual property rights, making it a hot topic among Gold Coast residents.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as it unfolds.
