Police from Central Hunter LAC are investigating and urge people with information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

The incidents have prompted Cessnock councillor Bryce Gibson to call for legislation to be changed to allow quick bat dispersal.

While unsure of the specific laws, Cr Gibson said government requirements made it hard to take action on the problem.

“I appreciate that we’ve got to follow a plan, but when did it become okay that this can occur and these bats get put before the learning of children and the quiet enjoyment of human beings?” Cr Gibson said.

“I’m not saying let’s kill bats but surely there’s got to be a proactive way that all levels of government can come together.”

Cessnock City Council is developing a bat camp management plan.

However, Cessnock City Council principal natural environment planner Ian Turnbull said there was “no one size fits all” approach and the issue was complex.

Parliamentary secretary for the Hunter and Central Coast Scot MacDonald visited the colony on Thursday.

He said he would inform Environment Minister Mark Speakman about the colony’s proximity to the school and the impact it was having on the community.

Mr MacDonald said he would push the case from an entire Hunter region perspective.