During times of heavy rain and under the cover of darkness, neighbours say, drivers take to the reserve to slip and spin their cars, ripping up grass on the public reserve which is home to the monthly Riverwalk Markets.

Not only are the drivers noisy and performing a criminal act, witnesses say it’s only a matter of time before someone, either a driver, passenger or passer-by is hurt.

The neighbours would like to see bollards installed around the reserve to prevent cars from being driven into the area. Some of the bollards could be removable to allow for market stall holders and event parking.

Port Macquarie-Hastings Council’s group manager of recreation and buildings, Liam Bulley, said spending council funds in this way is not a priority.

“Council staff are aware of hooning incidents on Bruce Porter Reserve. Staff have inspected the site after reported incidents and noted that damage has not been significant to date.

“While it is possible to spend funds on installing bollards along the perimeter of the reserve to prevent people driving into the reserve, this is not considered a priority at this point in time.

“Council would encourage neighbouring residents and the local community to contact police should matters of vandalism or hooning arise in the precinct in the future.”