Swarms of wasps and dilapidated play equipment at Central Park has provoked the ire of Oak Flats residents who want better amenities for children.
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Resident Joey Edwards took to the Our Oak Flats Facebook group to tell parents he would not recommend going to the park during the long weekend.
He said it was "infested with wasps" and the "slippery slide is missing and has caution tape wrapped around it".
"It's the worst I have ever seen it. The park is so run down," he said.
"It's a shame really as their were between 20 to 30 families down their and everyone was saying watch out for the wasps.
"It's about time for some pest control, a bulldozer [and] some exercise equipment. Start fresh so we can enjoy a modern park for our kids and families in our beautiful town."
Dozens of residents agreed with Mr Edwards comments including Clare Emma who said "swarms of wasps were serious [on Thursday] and absolutely an upgrade to the equipment is in dire need."
Steven Toole said "most parks in the Shellharbour region are a joke".
"It's sad we have to travel to Wollongong or Kiama just so the kids can play in a maintained park," he said.
Shellharbour City Council's budget has earmarked $1.5 million for play equipment renewal at Central Park, Reddall Reserve, McDonald Park and Skiway Park.
Shellharbour councillor Peter Moran said the council was aware that the slippery dip had been removed and a replacement would eventually be provided.
"I recognise the equipment is not new and may be less exciting for children who use it on a regular basis," he said. "However, when council installs this equipment we look for facilities which will last for many years.
"That is what the community would expect given playgrounds can cost up to $250,000 for equipment, soft fall and installation."
He encouraged residents to contact the council if they found the wasp nest so it could be removed.
Cr Moran also indicated Kingston Street Park had equipment in good condition and he notified council that two holes in the soft fall needed to be fixed.
He said the refurbishment of Skiway Park had "taken too long" due to a number of challenges but it would be upgraded this year.
Residents can submit feedback about the council's plans for playground upgrades during the budget's public exhibition period.
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