NEWCASTLE COUNCIL LAYS STOCKTON EROSION MANAGMENT OPTIONS ON THE TABLE
The City of Newcastle is seeking feedback on several erosion management options for the northern area of Stockton Beach.
The council has progressed four coastal management schemes for further investigation, including maintenance nourishment, an artificial reef, an artificial headland and sand back passing.
Lord Mayor, Nuatali Nelmes says work is underway on the 2021 Stockton Coastal Management Program, with an aim of identifying additional coastal management options to extend the life of mass sand nourishment.
“We’re investigating the feasibility of these schemes to ensure each is possible and would provide consideration to the entire Stockton Bight,” Cr Nelmes said.
“The Stockton Community Liaison Group has provided feedback on the positives and drawbacks of each scheme, allowing the designs to progress to this point.
“We would now like to hear from the wider community about what people like or don’t like about the options we’re considering, and why.”
Infrastructure Director, Ken Liddell says following community consultation, the proposed schemes would then be put through rigorous technical tests.
“For schemes that are considered feasible, we will then carry out a viability assessment, which will take the cost of each scheme into account and allow us to carry out a cost-benefit analysis,” Mr Liddell said.
The northern end of Stockton Beach, from Meredith Street to the Port Stephens Local Government Area boundary, is owned and managed by Defence Housing Australia, Hunter Water, Crown Land and the Department of Communities and Justice.
The council is working closely with the landowners during development of the program.
“These stakeholders must agree to the coastal management actions in the Stockton CMP 2021 to allow it to be sent for certification from the State Government,” Cr Nelmse said.
“Without agreement, the CMP cannot progress.”
The community can learn more about the management options and provide feedback on council’s website or by accessing a paper survey at Stockton Library.
